Baltimore, Maryland — A West Baltimore community is searching for answers after an 11-year-old boy was shot while on a playground near an elementary school, leaving residents fearful and frustrated as the suspects remain on the run.
The shooting occurred Wednesday evening in the Upton neighborhood, where children and families were gathered near a recreation area when gunfire suddenly erupted.
Child Shot on Playground Near Elementary School
According to police, the shooting happened shortly after 7:30 p.m. on a playground located near Pennsylvania Avenue and Dolphin Street, adjacent to Templeton Elementary School.
Authorities said the child suffered a gunshot wound to the abdomen and was rushed for medical treatment.
The violence shocked neighbors who say children should be able to enjoy community spaces without fear of becoming victims of gunfire.
Residents described the incident as heartbreaking and deeply troubling for families throughout the neighborhood.
Community Left Shaken by Violence
Many residents expressed concern about ongoing safety issues in the area following the shooting.
Longtime Upton resident Clinton Milburn, who has lived in the neighborhood for more than two decades, said the incident has affected the entire community.
“An 11-year-old child on a playground just minding his own business,” Milburn said.
He also described how the violence has changed daily life for many residents.
“It affects the whole community because I don’t feel safe to come outside during the day. At nighttime, I do not come outside at all,” he added. “I worry about my granddaughters being out here on the playground, playing out front. We have to prevent things from happening.”
Meanwhile, a loved one of the injured child posted online, calling the shooters cowards and asking the public to pray for the family.
Police Believe Child Was Not Intended Target
Investigators said the shooting appears to have stemmed from an attack targeting a 26-year-old man.
According to police, two suspects arrived near the Marshall Recreation Center and Templeton Elementary School before opening fire.
The adult male was struck during the attack, but so was the 11-year-old child, who police believe was an innocent bystander.
Authorities said one of the suspects was reportedly armed with a rifle.
“One of them had a rifle. They fired towards a playground where other kids were playing. We are lucky only one child was hurt,” Police Commissioner Richard Worley said.
He also expressed concern about the child’s recovery.
“Now, you’ve got an 11 year-old boy who is shot in the abdomen. He’s probably going to have to go through a bunch of surgeries to get himself fixed and hopefully have a good life.”
Investigators Reviewing Surveillance Footage
Police are actively reviewing surveillance footage from the area in hopes of identifying the shooters.
A convenience store located across the street reportedly has multiple security cameras that may have captured key evidence.
Authorities also indicated that, according to dispatch communications, the suspects may have changed clothes at a nearby apartment after the shooting.
As of now, no suspect descriptions have been publicly released.
Mayor Condemns Attack
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott strongly criticized the violence, expressing frustration over another innocent child being caught in gunfire.
“What we have here is another case of weak- men who cannot resolve their petty conflict without gunfire,” Mayor Scott said.
He continued:
“And now we have two people hit including an 11-year-old child who has absolutely nothing to do with whatever you’re beefing about.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to contact Metro Crime Stoppers.
What are your thoughts on this disturbing case of violence near a playground? Share your opinion respectfully in the comments below.
