Community stands together: Vigil held for girl struck by gunfire
MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Family and friends of 10-year-old Sierra Guyton gather at Clarke Street School in Milwaukee at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 23rd.
Guyton was struck in the head by a bullet while on a playground near 28th and Clarke St. on Wednesday evening, May 21st. Family members tell FOX6 News she remains on life support.
"I have to be strong for them. I get weak at times but that's a father. I'm just waiting for my baby to come back home," said Onjuan Guyton, Sierra's father.
Milwaukee police have identified one of the two suspects believed to be responsible and police are currently seeking that individual.
Police spent Thursday canvassing the area where the shooting occurred — hoping someone will be able to provide more information on what happened.
Police say their preliminary investigation indicates two individuals were shooting at each other, when the child was caught in the crossfire — and shot. Neighbors report hearing anywhere from 10 to 15 gunshots fired.
"That's what bothers me the most. My baby was just over there trying to play," said Guyton.
Guyton tries to stay positive as he worries about the health of his youngest daughter.
"There was a lot of fluid surrounding her brain. What they are doing now is draining the fluid surrounding her brain because that was causing it to swell," said Guyton.
He says doctors are waiting until Saturday to make final decisions about further care, but she did seem better today. Sierra is being treated at Children’s Hospital.
Dozens of community members gathered Friday night, May 23rd to pray for Sierra, and peace.
"'We're no longer safe in our community. If you can't take a stand against violence in your community, than you shouldn't complain about violence in your community," said Tory Lowe, vigil organizer.
Lowe believes this tragedy will be a turning point for Milwaukee, a realization that violence needs to stop.
"It takes multiple things to reduce violence. It takes jobs, cleaner community, and leadership," said Lowe.
Guyton asks for prayers and support, as his daughter struggles to survive. He says it feels good, and he's glad families are coming together and showing up to the vigil.
"It shouldn't take something like this for us to stick together. These are our family members - our loved ones. We should stick together, especially for our babies," said Guyton.
After any parents worst nightmare, the gathering brought the slightest of smiles to Guyton's face.
"You know God is good, that’s all I can say. God is good and she looked a little better today, but at the same time, you know, to speaking of reality, we just taking it one day at a time,” said Guyton.
Yolanda Harris, Sierra’s cousin says they have a very big family, and all of the people at the vigil are actually family.
Guyton says the violence has to stop, and he wants the people responsible to turn themselves in.
"That’s all I’m asking for, that’s all I really need is for everybody to pray for my daughter, pray for a safe coming home for her, and pray for the rest of these children out here," said Guyton.
FOX6 is told there will be a community peace rally in the area near the playground where the accident occurred on Monday, May 26th.
Anyone with information on this shooting incident is asked to contact police at 414-935-7360.
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