16-Year-Old Dremone Patterson Charged with First-Degree Murder of Keyon Day; 15-Year-Old Driver Faces Adult Charges for Accountability in Fatal Shooting Near Southeast High School
Tragedy struck the community of Springfield on April 24 when Keyon Day was fatally shot while walking to Southeast High School on Taylor Avenue. The incident sent shockwaves through the city, and now, two juveniles have been accused of first-degree murder in connection with Day’s death.
According to Springfield Police, 16-year-old Dremone Patterson is suspected of firing the shots that resulted in Day’s death using a stolen firearm. Deputy Chief Sara Pickford confirmed that the firearm has been recovered. Patterson is facing charges as an adult, including murder, possession of a stolen vehicle, possession of a stolen firearm, and possession of a firearm as a member of a street gang.
A 15-year-old driver is also facing charges in connection with the shooting. This individual is being considered for transfer to adult court and has been charged with first-degree murder under accountability. Additionally, they face charges of possession of a stolen vehicle, possession of a stolen firearm, possession of a firearm as a member of a street gang, and obstruction of justice for attempting to dispose of the firearm.
The Springfield Police Department had interviewed seven juveniles who were in two separate vehicles believed to be linked to the shooting. Deputy Chief Pickford indicated that further charges and arrests are probable as the investigation continues.
Keyon Day’s funeral was held at Union Baptist Church on April 25, just one day before the charges were announced. The community came together to mourn the loss of a young life and to support Day’s family and friends.
The shooting has raised concerns about violence and gang activity in the area. Authorities are working to address these issues and to ensure that justice is served for Keyon Day and his loved ones.
Dremone Patterson and the 15-year-old driver are facing serious charges for their alleged roles in the shooting. If convicted, they could face significant prison time and other consequences.
The investigation is ongoing, and the Springfield Police Department is urging anyone with information to come forward. The community is also coming together to support Keyon Day’s family and to promote peace and non-violence in the city.
As the legal process unfolds, the community will be watching closely to ensure that justice is served. Keyon Day’s death is a tragedy that has shaken the city, and it is important that those responsible are held accountable.
In the meantime, the community is coming together to support Keyon Day’s family and to promote healing and non-violence. The shooting is a reminder of the importance of addressing violence and gang activity, and the community is working together to make Springfield a safer and more peaceful place for all.