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In a court session on Tuesday, Steven Dodson Jr., aged 21, was denied bond in connection with the murder charge of a 2-year-old boy, whom the family has identified as A’mahri Robinson.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Shortly after being apprehended in Jacksonville, the suspect linked to the tragic death of a toddler was brought before the court, where the young victim’s family was present.
Heartbroken relatives described A’mahri Robinson as a joyful child, constantly radiant with smiles. They are now faced with the heartbreaking task of arranging his funeral.
Dodson is facing a total of five serious charges, including those of murder, attempted murder, and child endangerment. His arrest was announced by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office early Tuesday morning, following a day-long search after he allegedly fled a shooting scene. Family members informed First Coast News that Dodson is the father of A’mahri’s sibling.
According to JSO, the tragedy occurred during a heated argument between two adults at an apartment on Labelle Street. Investigators have concluded that Dodson was the one who fired the fatal shot. A’mahri was struck in the head and succumbed to his injuries at Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Witnesses reported seeing Dodson escape through the apartment’s back door immediately after the gunfire.
During the court session on Tuesday, Dodson did not appear in person, but the judge set bail for four of his charges, summing up to over $1 million. However, bond was entirely denied for the murder charge, and he was instructed to refrain from contacting any minors or witnesses involved in the case.
Court records show Dodson is a convicted felon, having only been released from state prison four months prior to A’mahri’s death.
His aunt, Rayniah, said A’mahri’s mother is struggling to process what she witnessed that night.
“She held her baby full with blood. Y’all don’t know what she went through.”
Another aunt, Virginia Dunbar, said she wants Dodson to face the most severe punishment possible.
“He doesn’t need to be living at all,” Dunbar said. “He took our life away from us. We all, we are family and we are hurting because that baby didn’t deserve none of that.”
Dodson’s next court date is scheduled for April 15.
The family has created a GoFundMe to support A’mahri’s funeral and memorial expenses.
“He leaves one older sister and brother who adores him as well as his mother and father who are struggling to cope with this heartbreaking reality. We appreciate your love, prayers, and support during this difficult time,” the GoFundMe reads.
