Detroit, MI — Community Mourns as Gunfire Claims Lives of 4-Year-Old Samir Josiah Grubbs and 18-Year-Old Davyion in Devastating East Side Park Shooting
A deep and heartbreaking tragedy has shaken Detroit to its core as families, neighbors, and city leaders mourn the loss of two young lives taken far too soon in a senseless act of violence. On Friday evening, June 27, 2025, a peaceful evening at a park near Denby High School, just off Duchess Street and Britain Avenue, was violently interrupted by gunfire that claimed the lives of 4-year-old Samir Josiah Grubbs and 18-year-old Davyion. A 17-year-old male was also injured in the shooting and remains hospitalized in stable condition.
According to Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison, the shooting occurred just after 6:20 p.m., in an area near Skinner Playfield Park, a popular gathering space for local families. What should have been a carefree summer evening quickly descended into chaos as bullets rang out, scattering crowds and sending bystanders diving for cover.
Among the victims was Samir, a bright, joyful 4-year-old whose infectious laughter and gentle spirit brought light to all who knew him. His family is devastated by the unthinkable loss, describing him as a playful and loving child who adored his toy trucks, cartoons, and storytime with his mother. His life was just beginning, full of hope and wonder, when it was tragically stolen in a moment of unimaginable violence.
Also killed was 18-year-old Davyion, a recent high school graduate described by loved ones as intelligent, kind, and driven. Friends say he had big dreams—he was planning to enroll in college in the fall to study graphic design. He was well known in his neighborhood for his calm demeanor, quiet leadership, and deep loyalty to family and friends.
“This is every parent’s nightmare,” Chief Bettison said during a press conference late Friday night. “A 4-year-old child, gone. An 18-year-old on the cusp of adulthood, gone. And for what? We are heartbroken, angry, and determined to find answers and deliver justice.”
Police confirmed that two suspects were taken into custody as persons of interest, based on witness statements and a rapid response from law enforcement. At this time, no names have been released, and no charges have been formally filed. The investigation remains in its early stages.
“We have homicide detectives canvassing the neighborhood, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage—including doorbell cameras from nearby homes,” Bettison said. “We’re asking anyone who saw or heard anything, no matter how small, to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP or reach out to our homicide unit.”
The shooting has ignited renewed outrage over gun violence in Detroit and nationwide, especially as it continues to claim the lives of innocent children. Community leaders, pastors, and local activists gathered Saturday morning at the site of the tragedy to pray, light candles, and console one another. A makeshift memorial, filled with balloons, teddy bears, and heartfelt notes, now marks the place where lives were lost.
“No child should die this way,” said Rev. Alonzo Blackwell of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, who led the vigil. “Samir should be running around, playing in the sun. Davyion should be preparing for his future. Instead, their families are planning funerals. This must stop.”
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan issued a statement calling the shooting “a devastating reminder of the urgent need to address gun violence at its roots,” pledging full support to the families and law enforcement.
Meanwhile, grief counselors have been made available at Denby High School and surrounding schools to help students and staff cope with the traumatic events.
The pain runs deep, especially for Samir’s family, who are left with only memories of a boy who had not yet seen his fifth birthday. His mother, speaking briefly to local reporters, said:
“He was everything to me. My baby. He loved dinosaurs and bubbles. He was so happy. He didn’t deserve this.”
A GoFundMe page has been established to support funeral expenses and provide assistance to both families as they navigate an unimaginable loss.
As Detroit mourns, the city also remembers. It remembers a smiling boy who loved to dance in the living room and a young man who dreamed of changing the world with his art. And with heavy hearts, it demands peace—because no more children should have to die at a park on a warm summer day.
If you have any information regarding the June 27 shooting, please contact the Detroit Police Department Homicide Unit or call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-SPEAK-UP.