The tragic death of Zanir Childs, an 18-year-old Brooklyn resident, has ignited a passionate call for justice and a renewed focus on combating gun violence in East New York. Zanir was fatally shot on Saturday night, leaving his family heartbroken and demanding immediate action from the NYPD and community leaders.
A Son’s Love and Devotion: Krystal Childs Shares Memories of Zanir
During a deeply emotional press conference on May 19th, Zanir’s mother, Krystal Childs, bravely shared cherished memories of her son. She described Zanir as a loving, responsible, and compassionate young man who was devoted to his family. “It was his brother, myself, and him,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. Zanir was a passionate football fan who also dedicated his time to caring for his paralyzed grandmother for the past five years. He lived on Wortman Avenue in Brooklyn and was known for his strong sense of family.
Details of the Double Shooting on New Jersey Avenue
Zanir Childs was tragically killed in a double shooting on New Jersey Avenue in East New York. He sustained a gunshot wound to the torso and was found in cardiac arrest by first responders from Engine Company 290. Emergency Medical Services rushed Zanir to Kings County Hospital, but sadly, he could not be saved and was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. An 18-year-old woman was also injured in the shooting, suffering a gunshot wound to her right arm. She is currently receiving treatment and is listed in stable condition.
Another Shooting Rocks the 75th Precinct
Adding to the community’s distress, another double shooting occurred within 24 hours of Zanir’s death. This incident took place inside Highland Park in Cypress Hills, highlighting the pervasive problem of gun violence in the area. Two more young people were injured: an 18-year-old man shot in the right forearm and a 15-year-old struck in the left thigh. Both victims were transported to the hospital and are in stable condition.
NYPD Data Shows a Slight Decrease in Shootings, But Concerns Remain
According to NYPD CompStat data, while the recent shootings are deeply concerning, overall shooting incidents in the 75th Precinct are slightly down compared to last year. As of May 18th, there have been 15 shootings with 21 victims, compared to 18 shootings during the same period in 2023. Despite this slight decrease, the community remains deeply affected by the ongoing threat of gun violence.
Calls for Accountability and a Stronger Police Presence
Reverend Kevin McCall, a prominent community leader, stood with the Childs family during the press conference and called for greater accountability and a more visible police presence in East New York. He argued that the NYPD must prioritize the safety of underserved communities like East New York, which have historically been disproportionately affected by crime. “It seems like every time the sun comes out, the guns come out,” McCall said.
McCall also directly addressed the shooter, urging them to turn themselves in and take responsibility for their actions. He emphasized the community’s unwavering support for the Childs family during this difficult time. The community is uniting to demand justice for Zanir and to create a safer environment for all residents. “She is not going to be alone. The community is behind her,” McCall added. “We want to make sure that justice prevails and hope that [the killer doesn’t] sleep until [they] turn yourself in or are caught.”
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