x
Breaking News
More () »

'He just went to the skating rink to have fun' | Family of 11-year-old Decatur boy shot in head is concerned about his recovery

Police have not made an arrest in the case.

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — An 11-year-old boy in Decatur is in critical condition after being shot in the head outside of a skating rink over the weekend, according to the child's family.

DeKalb County Police were called to Golden Glide Skating Rink on Wesley Chapel Road late Saturday night after shots were fired.

“My grandson is fighting for his life now he’s in critical condition and this shouldn’t happen to no family,” said Stephanie Johnson. 

She said she was devastated when she learned her grandson was hurt during an outing. His family told 11Alive's Tracey Amick Peer that his father was in the parking lot on the phone waiting to pick up Dmari when the shots were fired.

“We didn't know if he was dead or alive he just went to the skating rink to have fun,” Johnson said.

>> The video below is about the family petitioning to close the skating rink on April 12 

According to DeKalb County Police, a fight inside the rink spilled outside into the parking lot.

Johnson’s family showed 11Alive cell phone video that was posted on social media. They say they can see Dmari in white pants and a dark hoodie running with a group of other people across the parking lot. Seconds later, shots are fired.

The grandmother said there was security at the rink-- she just wishes they would've stepped in.

"If there was confrontation on the inside why didn’t security call the parents then?" Johnson said.

Now Dmari's family is praying he recovers and that the shooter will be brought to justice.

"Please come forward, my grandson did not deserve this. Dmari did not deserve this at all," Johnson said.

DeKalb County Police are still looking for the shooter and asking anyone with any information to call them at 77-724-7850.

Before You Leave, Check This Out