7-Month-Old Baby Killed in Targeted Shooting as Police Hunt Gunmen

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A 7-month-old baby was killed after suspects opened fire on a South Carolina home in the early hours of Sunday morning, with police confirming the shooting was not random and that a full investigation is underway.

Spartanburg Police Department responded to reports of gunfire at an apartment on Collins Avenue just after 4 am. Officers arriving at the scene followed a trail of blood into the property, where they found infant Zymir Demarco Smith with a gunshot wound to his neck. He had been asleep beside his mother at the time of the attack. Zymir was later pronounced dead.

According to investigators, two unidentified suspects fired multiple rounds into the residence, striking both the first and second floors. Police confirmed on Monday that they believe the attack was targeted and are examining whether the incident could be linked to other recent shootings in the Spartanburg area.

“There’s not anything that’s off the table. We are turning every stone,” said Major Art Littlejohn, a spokesperson for Spartanburg Police. “No parent, no community, no family should have to experience something like this.”

Family members say the loss has devastated them. Zymir’s aunt, Karen Smith, recalled the moment she learned what had happened. “It just broke my heart. All I could do was cry,” she said. Describing her nephew, she added, “He was so cute and adorable, and I just couldn’t imagine someone doing that to an innocent child. He was a happy, cheerful butterball. He loved to watch cartoons, and he loved to eat.”

The child’s murder has shaken the community. One neighbour who witnessed the mother’s anguish shared their reaction. “I couldn’t imagine. That’s somebody’s baby. They never got to experience life,” the resident said. “I’ve seen the mom come out and was like, ‘My baby. I wish I could hold my baby, kiss my baby.’ All that. Hearing her break down broke me down.”

Karen Smith made a direct appeal to those responsible. “Whoever has done this needs to turn themself in because this is senseless,” she said. “I wish you would just come forward. Just come forward because this is a child that lost his life.”

The Spartanburg Police Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and is asking for the public’s assistance. Officials urge anyone with information to come forward, noting that tips can be submitted anonymously.

“Everybody help find the person or people who shot this lady’s apartment up,” one neighbour said. “Hug your babies tight and live every day like it’s your last because you never know.”

Authorities are encouraging anyone with details about the case to contact Spartanburg Police at 864-596-2065. The investigation remains active and ongoing.