DETROIT, MI — A tragic shooting at Skinner Playfield near Denby High School has left the city of Detroit in mourning after a 4-year-old child and an 18-year-old young man were fatally shot on June 27, 2025. A third victim, a 17-year-old boy, was also injured in the attack. Authorities have since charged two suspects in connection with the senseless act of violence.
On July 3, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy announced that Brandon Lee Ware, 18, and William McKinley Wheeler, 19, both of Detroit, face multiple charges including two counts of first-degree murder. The shooting, which occurred at Skinner Playfield on Dutchess Street, is believed to have stemmed from a dispute earlier that day on a Detroit city bus.
According to investigators, an altercation took place when someone removed a ski mask from Ware’s head. Ware allegedly left the bus, retrieved a firearm from a residence on Riad Street, and later returned to the park area in a pickup truck driven by Wheeler. Authorities say Ware opened fire from the vehicle, targeting a group of people he believed were involved in the earlier confrontation.
The victims of the shooting have been identified as:
Samir Josiah Grubbs, a 4-year-old boy, was at the playground with his family enjoying a summer evening when he was struck by gunfire. His death has devastated the community. His family remembers him as a joyful child who loved superheroes, riding his bike, and spending time with his siblings.
Daviyon Shelmonson-Bey, 18, was also fatally shot. According to authorities, he was unarmed and had no involvement in the earlier incident. Loved ones describe him as a bright, respectful young man with a deep passion for music.
A 17-year-old male, whose name has not been released, was shot in the leg and is expected to recover. However, the emotional trauma from the event is likely to have long-lasting effects.
Following the shooting, Ware and Wheeler fled the scene. A swift investigation led to their arrest on July 2. Both are currently being held without bond and are awaiting arraignment.
Charges Filed
Prosecutor Kym Worthy announced that the defendants are charged with:
Two counts of First-Degree Murder (punishable by life without parole)
One count of Assault with Intent to Murder
Multiple firearms-related felonies
Conspiracy charges are expected to be added
“This heartbreaking tragedy is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of reckless and retaliatory violence,” said Worthy. “A 4-year-old child and a young man full of promise are gone. Their families are shattered. Our community must do better.”
Community Reaction
In response to the tragedy, a growing memorial now stands at Skinner Playfield. Balloons, candles, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes honor Samir and Daviyon, reflecting the deep grief and outrage felt by residents.
Community organizations and city leaders are calling for increased efforts to curb gun violence, particularly among youth. Local violence prevention programs, including “Protect the Zone,” have renewed their commitment to working with at-risk youth and building safer neighborhoods.
Call for Information
The investigation remains active. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward:
📞 Detroit Police Homicide Division: (313) 596-2260
📢 Crime Stoppers (anonymous): 1-800-SPEAK-UP
As Detroit seeks justice and healing, the memory of Samir Grubbs and Daviyon Shelmonson-Bey lives on as a painful reminder of what’s at stake when violence goes unchecked.