Durham was rocked by tragedy on Saturday when a 15-year-old boy, identified as AJ, was fatally shot while playing in the snow at the Magnolia Pointe Apartments on Danube Lane. The heartbreaking incident occurred around 2:40 p.m., leaving the community grieving and searching for answers.
Police responded to reports of a gunshot wound and found AJ critically injured at the scene. Emergency Medical Services rushed him to a nearby hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The investigation has uncovered a crime scene marked with 20 evidence markers, underscoring the severity of the incident.
Witnesses at the scene reported that AJ had been enjoying the snowfall when the shooting happened, a detail that has amplified the outrage among residents and city officials. “A child should be able to play in the snow,” said Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams. “I’ve gone from being sad to just mad as hell. I’m deeply frustrated.”
The tragedy has sparked widespread grief and anger, with community members expressing their sorrow on social media. “It’s heartbreaking that children cannot simply be children in this town,” wrote one resident. Another added, “Lord, please pray for his mama and sister.”
Mayor Williams joined the chorus of voices demanding action, emphasizing the urgent need for improved public safety measures. “The systems designed to protect us are not functioning as they should,” he stated. “We need to adopt a proactive approach to public safety, and a key part of that is investing in our children.”
Durham police have called on the public for assistance in their investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact Investigator J. Smith at 919-560-4440 ext. 29365 or submit anonymous tips through Durham Crime Stoppers at 919-683-1200 or durhamcrimestoppers.org.
As the investigation continues, residents are united in mourning the loss of a young life and advocating for change to prevent such senseless tragedies in the future.
