A 13-year-old boy has been declared brain-dead after being shot on his way to school in Queens, leaving his family and neighbors heartbroken. Police identified the victim as Sanjay Samuel, who was struck in the head outside a Dunkin’ in the Cambria Heights neighborhood on Monday. Officers believe he was the intended target.
Samuel’s mother, Vilene Griffith, spoke to CBS News about her son’s condition. “Sanjay’s not doing well. Sanjay’s brain-dead,” she said. “Nothing is going on. He’s not breathing on his own. He’s not doing anything.” Despite the devastating diagnosis, Griffith expressed her hope that her son would survive. “You’re a fighter and we know you’re gonna fight through this,” she said.
She also directed an emotional message to the shooter, who remains at large. “Why? Sanjay was only 13 years old. Why did you have to shoot little Sanjay? I lost my son, and your mom lost you, also.” Two police officers now stand guard outside the Dunkin’ where the shooting took place. Surveillance footage captured the moments after the incident, including a boy running into a deli to alert other children.
Valerie Small, the block’s vice president, said the community is stunned. “We don’t know where the disconnect is. And especially even in our community, we are really surprised that something like this would happen,” she said. “We stand with the family and whatever they need us to do this block, this community is there for them.”
Neighbors added that the parking lot where the shooting occurred is a popular gathering spot for local kids. Family members described Samuel as a lively, well-loved child. “Sanjay was fun … Fun little child to have,” Griffith said. “Sanjay will have the whole neighborhood up and running all summer.”
His uncle, Elvin Griffith, noted the shock among the boy’s peers. “So it was very shocking to them, this occurrence, basically,” he said. Samuel had recently graduated from middle school, attended his spring prom, and was eager to try out for his school’s basketball team. Relatives said he loved playing basketball, dancing, and staying active.
Police have not identified a suspect, and the investigation remains ongoing. The shooting has rattled the community, but many continue to pray for Samuel’s recovery. “Miracles do happen, and I’m trusting God for Sanjay to get up,” Griffith said.