SYRACUSE, NY — 8-Year-Old Among Three Children Shot in Syracuse Neighborhood: Community Demands Action as Investigators Search for Answers
A summer evening in Syracuse turned violent and chaotic when three young boys, ages 8, 9, and 12, were shot on the city’s North Side in a disturbing incident that has left the community shaken and outraged. The shooting occurred around 8:30 p.m. on Monday, June 23, 2025, in the area of Hier Avenue and Knaul Street, according to the Syracuse Police Department.
All three children were rushed to Upstate University Hospital and are expected to recover from non-life-threatening injuries. As of Tuesday evening, no arrests had been made.
“They Were Just Kids Playing Outside”
According to family members and witnesses, the children were simply enjoying the evening — playing with cousins and friends — when gunfire erupted. An 8-year-old boy was struck in the buttocks, a 9-year-old was hit in the arm, and a 12-year-old suffered a graze wound to his foot.
The mother of the 8-year-old posted a raw and emotional response on social media, defending her child’s right to be outside and placing the blame squarely on those who brought violence to their neighborhood.
“My baby is 8 years old — he was outside being a kid, playing with his cousins and friends,” she wrote. “Don’t blame the parents for letting kids play outside in the afternoon. Blame the ones who pulled the trigger.”
Her words have resonated with many in the community, echoing frustration over the dangerous conditions children face simply by stepping outside their homes.
A City Reeling from Back-to-Back Shootings
This shooting was one of two incidents within 24 hours in Syracuse involving children. Just hours later, on Tuesday afternoon, a 15-year-old boy was fatally shot near the Onondaga Park Pool on the city’s South Side — an area popular with families during the summer.
Police say the two incidents are not believed to be connected, but the impact has been devastating.
“Our children are being caught in the crossfire,” said community activist Angela Martinez. “This isn’t just about individual crimes — it’s about an environment that’s becoming unsafe for our most vulnerable.”
No Arrests Yet, Investigation Ongoing
As of Wednesday morning, no suspects had been publicly identified in the North Side shooting. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward and help bring those responsible to justice.
Tips can be submitted anonymously to Syracuse Police or through Crime Stoppers at (315) 442-5222.
Officers have increased patrols in the area and are reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding blocks.
Calls for Change Grow Louder
In the aftermath, parents, educators, and local leaders are calling for more than just justice — they’re demanding systemic change. From gun violence prevention initiatives to increased youth programming, advocates say this moment must be a turning point.
“Our kids deserve better,” said Rev. James Holland. “They deserve safe places to play, to grow, to live — without fear.”
Candlelight vigils and community meetings are being planned in both neighborhoods as the city continues to grapple with the trauma and looks for a way forward.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Syracuse Police Department or Crime Stoppers at (315) 442-5222.