OPA-LOCKA, Fla. (AP/WSVN) — Police have arrested two teens who investigators believe fatally shot a 32-year-old pregnant woman and wounded her 13-year-old daughter.
Police arrested 19-year-old Zackrus Beckham early Wednesday on first-degree murder and attempted felony murder charges. Last week, 15-year-old Tamarray McDaniels was also arrested.
Authorities said Quantia Curry Golden was sitting in a car outside a home in Opa-locka when she was shot on Nov. 26. She was three months pregnant.
Golden’s 13-year-old daughter was shot in the arm.
Police said two gunmen opened fire on the home near Miami, then saw Golden sitting in the car outside. According to investigators, the pair then peppered the car with gunfire in an apparent attempt to eliminate witnesses.
Golden’s mother, Gladiest Barnes, expressed relief at the news that her daughter’s suspected killers had been arrested.
“Oh, my God, that is like the best Christmas present a parent could ask for,” Barnes said. “I’m very thankful that now I don’t have to be so tight with anger and things of that nature. Today was just like — oh, my God — just a true blessing.”
Police said a witness came forward and identified the teens involved.
Barnes hopes these arrests will bring more attention to the serious problem of teens and gun violence.
The family expressed their gratitude toward everybody involved in the investigation, which is still far from over.
“Thank you,” said Lorraine Stukes, the victim’s friend. “It means a lot to us. Thank you.”
“Thank you guys so much,” Barnes echoed. “This is all I ever asked for because no parent should have to go through this.”
The family has experienced their share of gun violence in the past.
Golden’s 20-year-old brother was fatally shot seven years ago.
Beckham appeared in court where a judge denied his bond, Wednesday.
An attorney for Beckham was not listed on jail record.
McDaniels and Beckham both face murder and attempted murder charges.
Miami-Dade Police continues to search for two other possible subjects involved.
If you have any information on this crime, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a $3,000 reward.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.