In a sad event that sent shock waves through Burlington, a 7-year-old boy was shot and killed while sitting outside his apartment. On Thursday night, young Mason Jenkins became an innocent victim of gun violence after a stray bullet hit him. Despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries early Friday morning.

The Burlington Police Department has expressed condolences: “Our deepest sympathies go out to the family and to all those who have been touched by this violent act. We join our community with profound sorrow today as we process this tragedy.” They stress efforts to locate those responsible are ongoing, calling on witnesses for cooperation.

This tragedy galvanized the community; with organizers discussing holding a vigil to remember Mason. Some residents asked for prayers, stating gun violence is getting out of hand and needs to be stopped. Minister Cathy Dixon comforts Mason’s family, especially his younger sister, by encouraging her to pray for her brother.

The police have arrested 18-year-old Tremaine Armstrong and charged him with attempted murder, along with 21-year-old Kemontae Crosby as an accessory to the crime. Investigations into this are ongoing, and the authorities appeal to anyone who can assist them with any information whatsoever.

As the community is in mourning, the message is clear: the loss of a child to senseless violence is felt deeply, joining many together in their quest for justice and future prevention. This story of the 7-year-old boy shot and killed was one painful memory of the urgent need for action against gun violence in our neighborhoods.