Police sergeant decries death of 1-year-old killed by stray bullet
Police in Indianapolis, Indiana are in shock after responding to a shooting early Thursday morning that took the life of a 1-year-old girl.
The shooting happened just before 2 a.m. at a home on the northeast side of the city.
Indianapolis Metro Police Sgt. Chris Wilburn was emotional as he spoke to ABC affiliate WRTV at the scene early this morning.
“There are officers around here saying they are okay, but they’re not, they are not okay, because I’m not okay, the chief is not okay. This hurts, it hurt deeply," said Wilburn.
Police said nine people were inside the home, including another baby, when shots rang out overnight. Most of the people inside were family members.
During an afternoon news conference Chief Bryan Roach said the shooting was targeted.
"The dispute started on social media and culminated this morning when a suspect exited a car and fired multiple rounds into the house,” he said. The reason for the dispute is still under investigation. Roach added.
A 19-year-old woman was also shot but police said she is expected to recover from her injuries.
Community activist Anthony Beverly implored residents to help reduce the violence in the neighborhood.
"We need mentors and life coaches, men, women step up, elders step up” he urged.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said whoever is responsible will face the full weight of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office.
