There has been so much senseless violence in our country and throughout the world, but the shooting of a five-year-old boy in Beloit, Wis., on January 22 brought tears to my eyes.
Austin Ramos, Jr., was riding in the back seat of his father’s car when an SUV pulled up alongside the car and someone opened fire. The boy was shot and died at a local hospital. So far, there have been no arrests. Authorities are still looking for the perpetrator.
Come forward
“We really ask that our community in Beloit come forward and help solve his crime. We need the support and cooperation of Beloit,” said Interim Police Chief David Zibolski.
Police are looking for a maroon SUV, a late 1990’s or early 2000’s model, possibly a GMC.
Anyone with information is urged to call the Beloit Police Department at 608-364-6800.
Candlelight vigil
Hundreds of people turned out on January 25 for a candlelight vigil to pay their respects to the boy who was killed and his family.
Luis Pineda, one of Austin’s cousins, called his death hard to believe. “I couldn’t fathom anyone shooting a child and taking a life . . . now there’s an empty bed and empty heart because of this senseless violence.”
‘No more’
Media reports of the vigil said that “no more” was the Beloit community’s rallying cry as they remember this young life cut short. Mourners lit candles, prayed, and released balloons during the service led by a local minister.
I encourage anyone with information on this shooting to contact the authorities. But beyond that, I hope everyone will work and pray for an end to such violence in our communities. We must all do what we can to promote respect for all life!