Jaziah Smith, a 22-year-old Hartford man, was found guilty by a jury on Tuesday for the murder of a 3-year-old child, Randell Jones, Jr. The incident occurred on April 10, 2021 when Smith opened fire on a car at the intersection of Nelson Street and Garden Street. Randell, who was in the back seat with his siblings, was struck by gunfire and later died in the hospital. The intended target was a passenger in the car, according to police.
Hartford State’s Attorney Sharmese Walcott commented on the verdict, stating that it sends a message to offenders that gun violence will not be tolerated in the community. Smith will be sentenced on December 10.
The tragic incident highlights the devastating impact of gun violence on innocent lives, and serves as a reminder of the need for stricter measures to prevent such crimes. This case also underscores the importance of working closely with law enforcement to ensure that perpetrators of violence are held accountable for their actions.
As the community mourns the loss of a young child, the verdict in this case brings a small measure of justice for Randell Jones, Jr. and his family. The sentencing of Jaziah Smith will hopefully bring some closure to this heartbreaking chapter in Hartford’s history.
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