An 11-year-old girl is in critical condition at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital in Oakland after being shot in the head by a stranger while inside her father’s car. The incident occurred around 12:40 pm on Monday in the apartment complex parking lot. The girl, whose identity has not been disclosed, was seated in the front passenger seat when the shooting took place unexpectedly.
The assailant, identified as Ryan Hardy by the police, indiscriminately fired shots at innocent bystanders, resulting in a bullet penetrating the car and striking the child’s head. The father of the girl, who remains unnamed for safety reasons, expressed the heartbreaking moment when she regained consciousness, asking why she couldn’t see. He shared his immense anguish, stating that coping with her words was unbearable.
According to the Antioch Police Department, the gunfire pierced the back windscreen, passed through the headrest, and hit the girl at the back of her head. The father, overwhelmed with grief and fear, emphasized the profound impact the shooting has had on his family, describing it as a heart-wrenching experience.
The suspect, Ryan Hardy, aged 23, has been identified by authorities and is considered armed and dangerous. Law enforcement officials urge the public not to approach him and to report any information on his whereabouts immediately by calling 911. They also cautioned that aiding Hardy in evading capture may lead to arrest as an accessory.
A GoFundMe campaign initiated by relatives revealed the family’s decision to permanently leave Antioch due to safety concerns, necessitating abandonment of their residence, jobs, and community. The fundraiser highlighted the extensive medical treatment, therapy, and emotional recovery needed for the girl, with uncertain prospects for her functional restoration.
The campaign emphasized the family’s honesty, humility, and hard work, noting their unexpected reliance on assistance given the challenging circumstances. Over $7,800 has been raised to support relocation expenses, lost income, emergency living costs, and ongoing medical requirements.
To contribute to the GoFundMe initiative, click here.