STORY YOUMISSED
Police officers launched a formal homicide investigation Tuesday evening after a 5-year-old boy died from a gunshot wound inside a south suburban home.
The Cook County medical examiner’s office identified the victim as Roson Garret.
First responders rushed to the scene in the 13900-block of South State Street at approximately 6:05 p.m. following emergency reports regarding a child who had been shot.
Medical personnel pronounced the child dead immediately upon arriving at the residential property.
Investigators quickly placed three family members who were present inside the home into police custody for questioning.
Authorities confirmed that these individuals remain detained, though prosecutors have not filed any formal criminal charges at this time.
The Riverdale Police Department continues to secure the residential block while forensic teams search the interior of the home for ballistics evidence.
Neighbors gathered along the sidewalks of South State Street as news of the neighborhood tragedy spread through the tightly knit suburban community.
Longtime residents described the surrounding neighborhood as a generally quiet residential area where children frequently play outside during the summer months.
Local community leaders expressed deep sadness over the loss of the young child and urged residents to remain calm while detectives complete their work.
The incident marks a tragic moment for the small south suburb, prompting immediate calls from safety advocates regarding proper firearm storage within residential homes.
Police officials have not yet released specific details regarding the owner of the weapon or the exact circumstances that led to the discharge of the firearm.
Detective units are actively conducting interviews with neighbors and tracking down any available residential security camera footage from nearby houses.
The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office is working directly with local investigators to review the evidence before making any decisions about potential criminal charges.
Local family safety organizations remind parents that keeping firearms unloaded, locked in a safe, and completely out of the reach of children prevents accidental household shootings.
Residents who possess any relevant information or exterior surveillance footage from the 13900-block of South State Street should contact the Riverdale Police Department crime tip line immediately.
