A 16-year-old boy is in critical condition following a Thursday night shooting in Fort Pierce, prompting calls from community activists to address teen violence.
Officials said deputies heard gunfire around 9:15 p.m. and saw three juveniles running from the scene in different directions. Fort Pierce police joined the pursuit and discovered a 16-year-old male lying on the sidewalk with gunshot wounds. He was found on top of a bicycle.
Community Reaction
Reggie Sessions, a community activist in Fort Pierce, said teen violence often increases during the summer months. “I think a lot of it has to do with the young people in our neighborhoods are not having any supervised recreation. Where we have so many different facilities around here, but nothing is actually available for the young people,” Sessions said.
Police said three teens were taken into custody, and two weapons were recovered. One of the teens, a 16-year-old male, is facing several charges, including attempted homicide.
Officials confirmed the 16-year-old victim remains in critical condition. “When you ride by, and you see a baby on the streets bleeding, it’s terrifying because it could be your child,” Sessions said.
Police said the case is still active, and anyone with information is urged to contact detectives.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
