Police Issue Arrest Warrant In Fatal Shooting Of 2-Year-Old Newark Boy
NEWARK (CBSNewYork) - A 2-year-old boy was shot dead in Newark Friday morning and authorities are now looking for the boyfriend of the child's mother. Friday night, authorities issued an arrest warrant for 24-year-old Wakir Bryant, who is wanted in the toddler's killing.
The incident took place shortly before 10 a.m. at 57 St. James Place. Officials said Mikhy Robinson was shot in the head and pronounced dead at Beth Israel Hospital at approximately 10:14 a.m.
The little boy's mother reportedly woke up to her boyfriend holding the child, saying "I'm so sorry." And there is evidence someone tried to clean blood from the scene, CBS 2's Jessica Schneider reported.
Neighbors visited the child's mother Friday with candles and condolences.
"When I say energy, he got energy," landlord Brendan Smith told CBS 2's Sean Hennessey.
"He was just smart," said neighbor Keisha Donalds.
1010 WINS' Terry Sheridan Reports From Newark
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"I am saddened by this tragic and senseless loss of life and extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the infant," Newark Police Director Samuel DeMaio said in a statement.
Family consoled each other in the streets after the child was rushed to the hospital.
"It was crazy. All they said was his mouth was gone, was gone," said neighbor Denise Ashton.
"I just knew the mother and the son from around the neighborhood. I was shocked and sad. I was heartbroken," one neighbor told 1010 WINS' Terry Sheridan.
Officials said they do not know whether the shooting was accidental or intentional. Authorities said the child's mother was being questioned.
Neighbors say they heard a loud argument and could also smell gunpowder in the air after the shooting.
Marjay Vanceah, a neighbor, told Schneider she frequently saw the boy and his mother around the neighborhood.
The investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Essex County Prosecutor's Office 1-877-TIPS-7432 or 1-877-847-7432.
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