Brooklyn Teen Zanir Childs Fatally Shot in East New York; 18-Year-Old Woman Also Wounded in Late-Night Attack That Has Left a Community Grieving and Searching for Answers
Mother Remembers Her Son as a Bright, Driven Young Man with a Passion for Football
Updated: May 20, 2025
EAST NEW YORK, BROOKLYN — The young man killed in a devastating double shooting in East New York over the weekend has been identified as 18-year-old Zanir Childs. The deadly gunfire broke out just before 10 p.m. Saturday night outside 812 New Jersey Avenue, less than a mile from where Zanir lived—a neighborhood that is now grappling with grief and heartbreak.
Police say officers responded to a 911 call reporting shots fired and found two young victims at the scene: Zanir, suffering from a gunshot wound to the stomach, and an 18-year-old woman who had been shot in the right arm. Both were rushed to Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center. Despite emergency efforts, Zanir was later pronounced dead. The woman remains hospitalized in stable condition.
Zanir’s mother, Krystal Childs, spoke out publicly in the wake of the tragedy, sharing emotional memories of her son and painting a portrait of a focused, respectful, and goal-driven young man whose life was cut short far too soon.
“He was a good kid,” she said. “He loved school, he loved football. He had plans for his future, and now he’s gone. I don’t know how to live with this.”
She described Zanir as someone who stayed out of trouble and was deeply devoted to his family—an affectionate son, a caring brother, and a proud grandson. He was known for his quiet determination, strong moral compass, and a smile that made people feel at ease. Krystal said he was preparing to graduate from high school this year, with aspirations of pursuing higher education and continuing to play football.
The tragic loss of such a young life has left the East New York community shaken. Neighbors reported hearing a series of rapid gunshots Saturday night, followed by screams and chaos on the street. One resident who lives nearby said, “I heard five shots. Then I saw people running. It’s heartbreaking. These kids deserve better.”
The NYPD has not yet released any information about a suspect or motive in the shooting. As of Tuesday morning, no arrests have been made, and detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the violence.
Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby buildings and interviewing residents who may have witnessed the incident. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted through the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), or online at nypdcrimestoppers.com.
As the investigation unfolds, Zanir’s loved ones are calling for justice—and peace. “I don’t want revenge,” said Krystal Childs. “I just want the violence to stop. I don’t want another mother to feel this pain.”
A memorial is being planned to honor Zanir’s life and legacy, with community members already placing candles, flowers, and photos near the scene of the shooting. Friends and classmates have also begun sharing tributes online, remembering him as a bright and respectful young man with an unforgettable smile and a heart full of promise.
Further updates will be shared as more information becomes available.