MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A family is desperate for answers after their 2-year-old was shot in the head during a road rage incident.
The family of Laylah Washington took to social media on Monday, pleading with the community to share the video showing the tragic outcome of violence – the little girl, just a toddler, fighting for her life at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.
Her family is not sure if she is going to make it.
“She’s not doing good right now at all,” said Terry Washington, Laylah’s Uncle. “I just came out the room and she got the ventilator on her and all the equipment that they have.”
According to police, it all started over the weekend when Laylah’s mother went to pick up her sons from work in the 6700 block of Winchester Road.
While waiting, an erratic driver almost hit her car, leading her to yell at the man.
With her kids in the car, the family was suddenly the target of gunfire.
Two-year-old Laylah was shot in the head and rushed to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in extremely critical condition.
The suspects fled the scene.
Her uncle has a message for the shooter.
“You got a mother, I’m quite sure some of y’all might have children, why go kill somebody family member because you’re upset,” said Terry Washington. “I know she is not gone be the first one to get shot and I know she won’t be the last baby but to me I wish everything would end.”
In the video posted Monday, the family said all they want now is for those behind the senseless act to face justice.
They hope seeing the video of the girl clinging to life will spur someone to come forward.
Terry told WREG, he just wants to find the cold-hearted person who shot his niece.
“She’s the last of all the grandkids,” said Washington. “Active, she love running around and doings thing, she’s the type of person that if she’s sits still she must be sick.”
If you know anything about Laylah’s case, call Crime Stoppers at (901) 528-CASH.
Mayor Jim Strickland is out of the office Monday, but his staff sent the following statement:
“The mayor is deeply troubled and saddened by this violent act that has a small child fighting for her life. He is praying for the child’s speedy recovery, and asks all Memphians do the same. This type of violence is unacceptable, and the Memphis Police Department is using all its resources to bring the shooter to justice.” -Ursula Madden, Chief Communications Officer
“This type of senseless violence must stop. Someone knows who committed this heinous crime, and I urge you to do the right thing and call CrimeStoppers at (901) 528-CASH.
“To the family of little Laylah, I want you to know that I am praying for you. Also, know that the men and women of the Memphis Police Department are working tirelessly to bring justice to those with no regard for human life.”