JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – What was supposed to be the start of a fun day, turned into a scary situation for one Jacksonville family, as a man who was trying to protect his family Saturday accidentally shot his stepson as he fought off an armed robber, according to police.
At last check, 10-year-old Drevon Ricks was in critical but stable condition at Shands-Jacksonville Medical Center Monday, two days after he was struck by a bullet fired by his father at an armed robber.
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Police said Ricks was struck by a bullet that apparently ricocheted as his father shot and killed 18-year-old Jabray Jones, who was armed with a shotgun trying to rob the family as they sat in their vehicle outside a city park before dawn.
The shooting occurred at McGirts Creek Regional Park at the corner of Checkmate Lane and 118th Street.
Investigators said the family of five was parked in an SUV outside the park before dawn, hoping to be first in line to sign up for a popular summer camp at the park.
At about 2:30 a.m., police said Jones approached the car and demanded money.
Detectives said the father handed over his wallet, but when Jones tried to get into the back of the SUV the father opened fire.
Police said one of the father's stray bullets went into the car and struck Ricks.
Several neighbors in the area told Channel 4 they heard the sounds of gunfire followed by screaming.
"When I looked outside I heard a woman hollering, 'Oh my God. My baby. My baby,'" said Ronnie Quess.
"He became concerned. He armed himself with his own weapon, confronted the suspect, and shot him," said JSO spokesman Ken Jefferson."The father attempted to defend his family. He wasn't willing to sit by and let whatever happen happen. He took action, and unfortunately in taking that action his son was struck."
Counselors were on hand Monday at Sadie Tillis Elementary to consol Ricks' classmates.
In a statement released Monday Sadie Tills Principal La Verne Hamilton said, "It is heartbreaking to learn that one of our third grade students has been critically wounded and is currently hospitalized. Our school family extends our love concerns and prayers that he will make a full recovery. District grief counselors, along with our school counselor, will provide counseling support for students and staff as needed."
Students at Sadie Tills were giving a letter to take home to their families explaining what happened and what the school was planning to do in upcoming days.
Authorities with JSO said no charges have been filed in the shooting. They said they're waiting to finish their investigation before making any determination on the case.
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