By Our Correspondent
National News – A 21-year-old man, Amuri Greene, has been charged with multiple counts of murder after a seven-month-old baby, Kaori Patterson-Moore, was fatally struck by a stray bullet while sitting in a stroller in New York City, United States.
The tragic shooting occurred on 1 April in the Williamsburg neighbourhood of Brooklyn, authorities said.
Police allege Greene fired the gunshot that killed the infant during what investigators believe was a gang-related attack.
According to prosecutors, the baby was not the intended target but became an innocent victim when the suspect opened fire while riding on the back of a scooter moving through the neighbourhood.
The suspect appeared before a court on Friday where he pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Prosecutors have accused him of three counts of murder and one count of attempted murder, along with several weapons-related offences including criminal possession of a firearm and assault.
Investigators said the incident happened when two men were seen riding a motorcycle against the flow of traffic in Williamsburg.
Police believe Greene was seated behind the driver and fired multiple shots toward a group of people on the street. One of the bullets struck the baby, who was sitting in her stroller nearby.
Authorities said the driver of the scooter, identified as Matthew Rodriguez, 18, has also been arrested in connection with the shooting.
He was reportedly taken into custody in Pennsylvania and is expected to face charges related to the incident.
Following the gunfire, the scooter reportedly crashed into oncoming traffic. Police said Greene was thrown from the vehicle and taken to hospital for treatment before being placed under police custody.
The killing has sparked grief and outrage in the community. Family members, friends, and residents gathered on Friday evening at the corner where the shooting occurred for a candlelight vigil.
A growing memorial of balloons, flowers, and candles now marks the site, as mourners remember the infant whose life was cut tragically short.
Investigators continue to examine surveillance footage and witness statements as they work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.
