CLAYTON, N.C. – A man wanted in connection with the shooting death of a 12-year-old child in Clayton is now in police custody after turning himself in Monday morning.
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Clayton Police confirmed that Ty’ryn Anthony Zah’rel Washington, 20, surrendered to authorities and is now charged with manslaughter.
Fight and Weapons Reported Before Shooting
Just before 5:30 p.m. Friday, officers responded to the 300 block of Commodore Street after receiving a call about a fight involving several people and possible weapons.
When officers arrived, multiple individuals ran from the area. While police began interviewing witnesses, more people rushed out of a nearby apartment yelling that someone had been shot.
Inside, officers found a 12-year-old child suffering from a gunshot wound. The child was pronounced dead at the scene.
20–30 People Inside Apartment, Police Say
According to investigators, between 20 and 30 people were inside the apartment when the gun fired.
Witnesses told police that several people attempted to hide weapons from officers.
After collecting statements and evidence, detectives believe Washington was holding the firearm at the moment it discharged.
Police have not released additional details about how or why the gun went off.
