Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine said it would be better for those responsible for the death of a nine-year-old child to turn themselves in than have police track them down.
The little girl was shot overnight while she was asleep in a home in the 1000 block of Rhett Drive.
Officers responded to the scene around 2:14 a.m. Tuesday. The child was taken to the hospital, where she died.
Prine believes gang activity led to the “senseless” shooting. He said there were multiple children inside the residence when unknown subjects fired multiple rounds into the home.
No one else was injured.
Investigators said they are determined to bring those responsible to justice.
“It ain’t just this family that’s got to grieve,” Prine said. “This entire community is going to grieve.”
Prine and the City of Mobile have recently dealt with criticism from those demanding justice in other cases. While it appears police have followed policy, several incidents this year have led to public outcry and even immediate changes ordered by the mayor, an unusual move.
While Prine has remained silent on those cases in recent weeks, he said now is the time for the City of Mobile to be heard.
“I want to know where the outcry is," Prine added. "The community needs to join hands with the police department. Our city leaders need to join hands with the police department.”
Also overnight, another home in the 5000 block of Racine Avenue was shot up around 12:45 a.m. No injuries were reported there.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Mobile Police Department at 251-208-7211. Anonymous tips can be submitted by texting 844-251-0644 or visiting mobilepd.org/crimetip.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
