Nationwide — Skylar Baker, a 7-year-old African American girl from Pageland, South Carolina, was shot in the head while at home sleeping during a drive-by shooting. She remains in critical condition as the search for the suspect continues.
At around 1:17 a.m. on Sunday, local police officers responded to gunfire at Skylar’s home. A bullet went through the house and struck her as she slept. Officers gave her first aid before flying her to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Her mother, Essence Chambers, said the bullet hit the right side of Skylar’s brain. She is now on a ventilator and has a plate in her head. Doctors are preparing for a craniotomy.
Police described the shooting as a “careless act of violence” and asked the public to share any information. The suspect is still at large, according to ABC News.
Pageland Police Chief Dean Short called the incident “terrible,” especially in a small town like theirs. He urged the community to stand together against violence. Neighbors said shootings like this are rare in Pageland.
Skylar’s family is asking for prayers as she continues to fight for her life.