STATESVILLE, N.C. — A 8-year-old girl was killed and two other children were injured in an apparent drive-by shooting in Statesville Monday night, police said.
Statesville Police were called to a reported shooting in the 1300 block of Wilson Lee Boulevard, near the intersection with Newbern Avenue, a little before 7 p.m. When officers got to the area, they found two children — a 8-year-old girl and a 7-year-old boy — who had been shot.
Both kids were rushed to a hospital where the 8-year-old died from her injuries. Family members told WCNC Charlotte the 8-year-old was Ah'myiahh Howell. She was shot while playing outside with her cousin, Tariq Lowery, who was shot in the leg. Lowery's grandmother said the 7-year-old is doing well after surgery.
"I can't begin to explain the frustration and sadness I have because there are people out there that know who the shooters are," said Police Chief David Addison. "When I hear people say, 'I'm not a snitch,' you are saying my community doesn't matter. These crimes should never happen in any community."
Witnesses told police that a white car, possibly a Mercedes-Benz, was driving southbound on Wilson Lee Boulevard when someone fired shots from inside the car. While officers were processing the scene, they heard gunshots in the area of Newbern Avenue. Police said a 10-year-old boy was found after being shot. He is expected to make a full recovery.
Witnesses at that scene said they saw a white car, possibly a Honda Accord, drive down the road as a person fired shots from inside the car.
Addison said the Mercedes was stopped in Mooresville and is being processed. One man was detained and questioned by police but was not charged.
"I ask the community, you have to come forward," Addison said. "We are going to fight back but we need the community's help."
At this time, no further suspect information has been released.
Editor's Note: This story was updated to reflect the age of Ah’Miyahh Howell as 8-years-old instead of 9-years-old.
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