Teenage Suspects Indicted in Tragic Shooting of 3-Year-Old Buffalo Boy

BUFFALO, N.Y. — In a tragic turn of events, two teenage boys were indicted on Tuesday for their involvement in a Friday night shooting on Domedion Avenue that resulted in the death of a 3-year-old boy.

Acting Erie County District Attorney Michael Keane announced that a 14-year-old and a 16-year-old were arraigned and remanded, though their names have not been released due to their age.

The heartbreaking incident claimed the life of 3-year-old Ramone Carter and left his 7-year-old sister injured during an outdoor family gathering.

Both teens face serious charges:

• One count of second-degree murder
• One count of attempted murder
• One count of second-degree assault
• Separate charges of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon

Keane noted that the 16-year-old is being charged as an adult, facing a potential sentence of 15 to 25 years to life in prison. The 14-year-old, due to his age, faces 7 1/2 to 15 years to life.

The investigation suggests that the young suspects were not targeting Carter and his sister, but another individual.

“While it’s alarming that it’s a 14-year-old and a 16-year-old involved, it reflects the unfortunate society we’re living in today,” Keane remarked. “We are going to prosecute these kids to the fullest extent of the law. There’s a completely innocent child who is now gone, and his family will have to endure that loss.”

Keane refrained from commenting on the motive or the criminal history of the alleged shooters but confirmed their intent to fire the weapons.

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown urged the community to engage with youth and create safe environments. He also emphasized the importance of parental vigilance.

“What makes this even more tragic is the ages of those charged—14 and 16 years old. Literally, babies killing babies,” Brown said. “It’s horrifying that these children had guns and used them so indiscriminately.”

Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia expressed gratitude to the community and witnesses for their assistance in the investigation.

The teens are scheduled for a pre-trial conference on July 24 and are currently held without bail at the Erie County Youth Services Center.

Three-year-old Ramone CarterPhoto bywivb