by Bronx, NY – A tragic act of violence has claimed the life of 17-year-old Anthonaya Campbell, who died two weeks after being shot in the face during a gang-related shooting at a Bronx basketball tournament. The incident, which occurred on August 23 outside Haffen Park, also claimed the life of a 32-year-old man and left three others seriously injured.
Campbell, who was a bystander spectating the summer event, succumbed to her injuries Monday at Jacobi Hospital after spending weeks in critical condition. Her death marks the second fatality from the violent shooting which sent shockwaves through the community.
A Devastating Loss at a Community Event
The fatal shooting disrupted what was meant to be a joyous gathering as dozens were enjoying a late-summer basketball tournament. Anthonaya Campbell’s untimely death has been mourned by friends, family, and community members alike. A heartfelt message from Boyde Yeremiyah of Alpha & Omega Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ Inc. expressed the pain caused by this “senseless shooting” and called for an end to gun violence not only in the Bronx but worldwide.
“This is a very devastating moment! This young girl[‘s] life mattered and she should be here still with us! Her life was sadly taken away from us due to another senseless shooting. We are praying for the mother and the rest of her family who is also hurt by this terrible event! This senseless shooting has to stop not only in the Bronx! Not only in our communities, not only in New York, but all over the world.”
Jennifer Talbot, Campbell’s mother, described her daughter as “a joyful person” who was always warm and caring towards others. She had been visiting friends in the city at the time of the shooting.
Details and Legal Action Following the Shooting
The NYPD is treating the case as a murder investigation following Campbell’s passing. The initial victim, 32-year-old Jaceil Banks, was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital immediately after the shooting. Additionally, three other adults were wounded during the attack, which involved dozens of gunshots.
Authorities have charged four suspects, including two minors—a 20-year-old Daeven Reyes, 25-year-old Robert Royal, a 17-year-old boy, and a 16-year-old boy—with multiple serious charges such as murder, attempted murder, gang assault, and criminal possession of a weapon. One of the attempted murder charges is expected to be elevated to murder following Campbell’s death.
- 4 arrests have been made, including two minors.
- Charges include murder, attempted murder, gang assault, and weapon possession.
- The shooting is gang-related, highlighting ongoing violence in the Bronx.
Read Also: Baltimore County Softball Coach Michael J. Pusateri Accused of Sexually Abusing Minor
Continuing Violence and Community Impact
The Bronx continues to face escalating gang-related violence. In a related incident last week, one man was killed and four others injured in a separate drive-by shooting believed to be gang-related. These continued incidents underscore the urgent need for solutions to curb violence in the area.
For further detailed coverage of this tragedy and its implications, see the original report on New York Post.
Calls for Peace and Reflection
The heartbreaking death of an innocent teenager has ignited calls from community leaders and citizens to address the root causes of violence. Many hope that raising awareness and increasing community engagement can prevent further loss of life.
Key Takeaways:
- Anthonaya Campbell, an innocent 17-year-old, was fatally shot during a gang-related incident.
- The shooting took place during a Bronx basketball tournament attended by local families.
- Four suspects have been charged, with murder charges expected to increase.
- The Bronx continues to wrestle with ongoing gang violence and shootings.
- Community members demand an end to senseless gun violence.
“Her life was full of joy and kindness, and now she is gone because of violence that must stop,” said a close friend, encapsulating the collective grief and urgency felt throughout the borough.
Your Voice Matters
What do you think about this tragic shooting and the ongoing gang violence in New York City? Have you or someone you know been affected by similar incidents? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—your voice can contribute to building safer communities.
