Parents mourn for New York girl, 12, shot and killed in home
HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. -- Twelve-year-old Dejah Joyner's grief-stricken parents sobbed during the vigil Sunday for their child who was shot in her Long Island home on Oct. 16, reports CBS New York.
Authorities said a gunman outside her Hempstead home fired a shot at someone on the street and missed. Instead of hitting the intended target, the bullet went through the home's front plate-glass window, hitting the girl in the head.
Police have suggested the shot may have been fired during gang related argument or from a vehicle. Grief counselors were expected at Dejah Joyner's school on Monday.
"This is a senseless murder -- that's what it is. Anytime someone picks up a gun and takes a life, it's senseless," her grandfather James Miles said. "She's an innocent child. She's a child. Parents don't bury their children."
Nassau County Acting District Attorney Madeline Singas put out a statement Sunday.
"Dejah Joyner's life was violently cut short before she even had a chance to live it," Nassau County Acting District Attorney Madeline Singas said. "This is a heartbreaking tragedy and we will do everything in our power to make sure that the gunman is brought to justice."
Community members are urging anyone to come forward with information.
"My heart is broken, my heart goes out to the family," Hempstead Village Mayor Wayne Hall said at Antioch Baptist Church. "I'm really sick and tired of being sick and tired."
Police are offering a $75,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest. Anyone with information is asked to call 1-800-244-TIPS (8477).