Baby Born 2 Months Premature After His Mother Was Shot In The Head Remains Critical
MIAMI GARDENS (CBS4) - The baby boy born premature after his mother was shot in Miami Gardens Sunday remains in critical condition, but his great grandmother said the child's prognosis is not good.
The infant remains at Jackson Memorial Hospital two days after his mother, Qualecia James, was rushed there and later pronounced dead.
James' grandmother, Bernadette Deriso, fears she may have to plan a joint burial.
"I don't know whether he's going to live or not," Deriso said. "The hospital is getting in touch with us saying there ain't nothing they can do. If we want to christen him, we need to do it."
Deriso has never seen the baby boy nicknamed KJ.
She said she's not sure her heart could handle that on the heels of losing her granddaughter, but she hopes the baby pulls through and is relying on faith to keep her strong.
"They talk like it's over, but they only man, they not God," Deriso said. "That's their word. But when Jesus tell me it's over, I'll believe it."
According to a Medical Examiner's report, KJ's mother, Qualecia, was shot in the head while riding in the passenger seat of a car in Miami Gardens Sunday afternoon.
Officers handed out flyers Monday hoping for a clue that could lead to the killer, but as of Tuesday afternoon, no arrests had been made.
"I know that killing that went on is in God's hand. Ain't nobody can justify it but him," Deriso said. "Whoever killed my granddaughter, they need to turn themselves in. And whoever knows, they need to tell what's going on."
A victim's advocate stopped by Deriso's home Tuesday to help her get her granddaughter's affairs in order.
Deriso is currently caring for Qualecia's 4-year-old daughter.
Police have not said if Qualecia was the intended target of the shooting.
Deriso's relatives say she has received threats at her home.
Anyone with information should call Miami-Dade Crimestoppers at 305-471-TIPS.
You will remain anonymous and might be eligible for a reward if your tip leads to an arrest.
