A 12-year-old boy is recovering in the hospital after he was shot Sunday night at Clanzel T. Brown Park, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Authorities in Jacksonville are continuing their search for the person who shot a 12-year-old boy at a city park over the weekend. According to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the shooting happened around 9 p.m. Sunday at Clanzel T. Brown Park, located near Moncrief Road and West 35th Street.
Investigators said the child was rushed to a hospital, where he is now recovering from his injuries.
In a statement, the sheriff’s office said a group of young people had gathered at the park that night. At some point, officials said, part of the group left and later returned with a firearm. Detectives believe a dispute broke out between the groups, escalating into gunfire that struck the 12-year-old in the leg.
District 10 City Councilwoman Ju’Coby Pittman, who represents the area where the Jacksonville park shooting occurred, said she believes local leaders are working to reduce youth violence by offering more summer activities and safe spaces for children and teenagers.
“I think they’re looking for something they can call their own, but they don’t realize how dangerous those pop-ups are,” Pittman said, referring to recent teen gatherings that have turned violent.
Clanzel T. Brown Park includes several recreational options for young people, including a playground, swimming pool, covered basketball courts and a Boys & Girls Club. Pittman said those resources matter, but she added that the individuals behind acts of violence must also be held accountable for their choices.
“We have to continue to do what we do, but we also have to get the kids to take responsibility that their actions could endanger someone,” Pittman said. “I don’t want just because they’re out of school for that to be an excuse.”
She says that parents and guardians can also help by making sure they’re aware of what their kids are getting into, especially while they’re on summer break.
“You gotta know what your children are doing, you know what I mean?” Pittman said. “Especially at 12 years old.”
No arrests have been made at this time. JSO is asking anyone who might have information regarding what happened to call their tips line at 904-630-0500 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS (8477).
