An 11-year-old girl remains in critical condition after being shot in the head while in her father’s car in Antioch, California, northeast of San Francisco. The shooting has left her family devastated, and her father recently revealed the heart-wrenching question she asked after the attack.
According to Antioch police, the incident occurred on January 5 as the girl was sitting in the front passenger seat. A gunman fired at the car, with a bullet penetrating the rear windshield and striking the girl in the head. She was immediately transported to UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital for urgent treatment.
Her father shared the first words she spoke after the shooting. “She looked at me and asked, ‘Dad, why can’t I see?’” he recalled. “Those words broke me. No parent should ever hear that from their child.”
Family Struggles with Trauma
The girl’s aunt, Anahi Ramirez, described the pain of seeing her niece in the intensive care unit. “It’s shocking. I can’t believe this happened. Being her Godmother and aunt, it’s heartbreaking to watch her go through this,” Ramirez said.
The father also revealed he had made eye contact with the shooter but did not recognize him. Police confirmed that the family felt unsafe returning to their apartment complex and called for improved security in the area.
Suspect in Custody
On January 12, authorities reported that Ryan Hardy, the suspected shooter, turned himself in to the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office. Lt. Bill Whitaker of Antioch Police said, “Following several discussions, the suspect surrendered voluntarily. He is now in custody, and the investigation continues.”
Progress in Recovery
The shooting initially left the young girl blind and unable to walk, but doctors are reporting signs of improvement. “She is beginning to regain her sight and can now take steps again,” said Lt. Whitaker. “It’s a slow process, but she’s moving in the right direction.”
Community Rallies to Support the Family
The family has launched a GoFundMe page to help cover emergency expenses, relocation to a safer community, medical care, therapy, and ongoing support. The campaign has already raised nearly $25,000.
The fundraiser notes, “The family must leave their home and jobs behind to ensure the safety and well-being of all their children. The trauma extends beyond the injured child, affecting her three siblings and the entire family. They are hardworking, humble people who now face an unimaginable situation.”
This story is a reminder of the challenges families face after such tragic events. Our thoughts and prayers are with the 11-year-old girl, her family, and everyone affected by this incident.