Ikael Burkett dies in fatal Columbus, Mississippi shooting
Fatal Columbus, Mississippi shooting death of Ikael Burkett – Obituary
Authorities have identified three-year-old Ikael Burkett as the child who was fatally wounded in a shooting that occurred Monday night in Columbus.
The incident took place at a residence on the 400 block of 15th Avenue South. Instead of calling emergency services, those present transported the injured child in a private vehicle to Baptist Memorial Hospital, Golden Triangle, after he suffered a gunshot wound to the abdomen. He was later airlifted to another hospital for further treatment.
Police stated that Ikael had been left in the care of two men, 25-year-old DeMarco Brewer and 25-year-old Shamar Glaspie, while his mother was away. Both individuals have since been arrested and charged with felony child endangerment, with bonds set at $100,000 each.
Investigators noted that the case has been challenging due to conflicting accounts of what led to the shooting. Authorities believe the incident may have stemmed from a dispute between the two men.
Officials expressed concern over the circumstances, emphasizing the responsibility adults have to protect children. The case remains under active investigation as police continue working to determine exactly what happened.