For the Reporter
Kent Police investigators on Monday morning released pertinent details in the April 16 drive-by shooting death of Malijah Grant.
Homicide investigators hope the additional information leads to the arrest of those responsible.
The shooting occurred at about 4:25 p.m. at the intersection of Lake Fenwick Road and Reith Road. The 1-year-old girl was shot in the head while riding in her parents car. She died two days later at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. Grant lived in Kent with her parents.
“Investigators are working tirelessly, exhausting any and all resources, in an effort to locate additional witnesses, with the ultimate expectation of locating those responsible for this unspeakable act,” said Kent Det. Melanie Robinson.
Kent Police said the shooting is gang related, despite earlier reports that suggested it was a random incident. Police said the incident is connected to a series of shootings that have occurred between Seattle and Tacoma and cities in between.
On Monday, investigators released still images of the suspect vehicle that was caught on nearby surveillance, fleeing from the crime scene. The suspect vehicle is believed to be a black, four-door sedan with dark tinted windows. The vehicle has yet to be positively identified by make and model.
In addition, investigator’s need the public’s help with locating a vehicle of interest – a gray, four-door 2007 Pontiac Grand Am, with Washington license plate 678ZRL. Authorities said the vehicle has a burned out rear passenger side break light.
According to investigators, the gray vehicle was stolen from Renton and has yet to be recovered. The vehicle, investigators said, had occupants who actually witnessed the shooting. The occupants of the vehicle did not stop during the shooting and have not made attempts to contact the police to be interviewed, investigators said.
The Pontiac Grand Am was observed by witnesses closely following the suspect vehicle at the time of the actual shooting, police said. One witness was able to capture a picture of the Pontiac Grand Am behind the suspect vehicle as the suspect vehicle was fleeing the scene of the crime, investigators said.
Anyone with information that could help in the investigation is asked to call 911, or contact the Kent Police Department tip line at 253-856-5808.
Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound is also offering a cash reward of $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and charges of the suspects involved. Call the hotline anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit the information online at www.crimestoppers.com.
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