Horror as boy, 3, shot dead on Easter Sunday – babysitter charged with murder | World | News

A three-year-old boy died in an alleged shooting on Easter Sunday. Police have charged two people with murder following the shooting, including a female babysitter.

Emergency services rushed to the scene of the alleged murder in Atlanta, USA, at around midnight on April 5. Armani Deshawn Lyons was found to have been shot at least once before being taken to hospital by paramedics. However, despite the best efforts of those involved, he was pronounced dead shortly after.

Authorities said the shooting took place on the 900 block of Washington Street SW. Atlanta Police Department confirmed Barbara Edwards, a 71-year-old babysitter, and Jermaine Hardeman, 35, have been charged with felony murder, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and second-degree cruelty to children.

The force is yet to share further details surrounding the circumstances of the shooting or how Edwards and Hardeman are connected with the boy. Their investigation remains ongoing.

The family of Armani Deshawn Lyons, who held a vigil in his memory last Thursday (April 9), has since created a GoFundMe page to cover his funeral arrangements. It has raised around $4,000 (£2,950) so far from over 100 donations.

His family said they are “broken” by his death, describing Armania as their “beloved baby”. They added that the three-year-old was “full of life, joy, and innocence, a bright light who brought smiles to everyone he met”.

The fundraiser states: “We are asking for your support during this unimaginable time to help cover funeral arrangements and to give Armani the peaceful homegoing he deserves.

“Every donation, share, and prayer means more than words can express. If you are unable to give, please continue to keep our family lifted in your thoughts.”