A tragic incident unfolded at the Highland Park parade where a 2-year-old boy was discovered under his father’s body after a devastating shooting.
As per reports from The New York Post, Irina McCarthy, 35, and her husband Kevin McCarthy, 37, were present at the July 4th parade along with their young son Aiden.
An assailant, disguised in women’s attire to evade detection, opened fire on the parade attendees, resulting in the tragic death of seven individuals and causing injuries to numerous others.
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The attack transpired in Highland Park, Illinois (USA), believed to have originated from a rooftop overlooking the parade route. Evidence recovered from the roof of a nearby establishment, as reported by CNN, indicated that the shooter likely used a ladder affixed to the building’s alley wall.
According to The Daily Beast, little Aiden McCarthy, aged 2, was found beneath his father’s body as he lay injured.
One of the parade attendees, Lauren Silva, 38, recounted, “My friend passed me this young boy, mentioning that he was under his father who had been shot in the leg.”
“Efforts were made to stem the bleeding, and I carried the child down to the garage,” she added.
“All he could inquire about was whether his parents would return soon.”
Following the tragic incident, a fundraising campaign was initiated in honor of the child. At the latest count, the campaign had amassed over $1 million.
The GoFundMe page shared, “In the aftermath of the Highland Park shooting on July 4th, the North Shore community banded together to aid an unknown child. We ensured his safety amidst tragic circumstances, united to locate his grandparents, and prayed for his family’s well-being.”
“Regrettably, I must reveal his name… Aiden McCarthy. And he requires more of our support. His parents, Irina and Kevin, lost their lives during the July 4th incident. At two years old, Aiden faces an unimaginable future; growing up without his parents.”
Aiden is currently under the care of his maternal grandparents, Misha and Nina Levberg, who were successfully reunited with him through social media efforts immediately following the shooting.
“He has a challenging path ahead to recovery, stability, and navigating life as an orphan. He is surrounded by a supportive community of friends and family who will shower him with love and provide all necessary resources for his upbringing,” as per GoFundMe.
“On behalf of his family, and with their approval, I am launching this fundraising drive to aid him and the caregivers entrusted with his upbringing, care, and support as they embark on this unforeseen journey together.”
Reports indicate that the suspect, 21-year-old Robert E. Crimo III, was apprehended during a traffic stop and is currently in custody. He is facing seven counts of premeditated murder, with additional charges, including attempted murder, pending.
The suspect purportedly discharged over 70 rounds into the gathering at the Independence Day parade. Crimo is scheduled for an upcoming court appearance, during which Lake County District Attorney Eric Rinehart intends to seek the denial of bail.
Our thoughts are with young Aiden and his departed parents, along with all the other individuals affected by this atrocious act.
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