By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
HUNTSVILLE, Ala.—A 17-year-old suspect has been charged with murder and first-degree assault following a shooting that killed one teenager and wounded another over Labor Day weekend.
Huntsville police responded around 10:15 a.m. Sunday, September 6, to the 2400 block of Mount Vernon Road, where officers found two juveniles suffering from gunshot wounds.
Officers provided emergency assistance until Huntsville Fire & Rescue and HEMSI arrived. Both teenagers were transported to Huntsville Hospital. Seventeen-year-old Jayden Ford later died from his injuries. The second victim was treated for a gunshot wound and is recovering.
Investigators determined that the shooting occurred nearby in the 2500 block of Winchester Road, near Mike’s Mini Mart. Police have not disclosed what led to the gunfire or whether the three teenagers knew one another.
A juvenile suspect was taken into custody shortly after 11:30 p.m. Sunday. Police later confirmed that the 17-year-old faces charges of murder and first-degree assault. Police have not released his identity because he is a minor. The charges remain allegations unless proven in court.
Family members and friends gathered Monday evening for a balloon release honoring Ford. Community representatives used the gathering to call for an end to youth violence and encourage residents to speak up when they have information about violent crimes.
The Huntsville Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit continues to investigate. Anyone with information is asked to contact Huntsville police.