The U.S. Marshals Service has apprehended a man in Virginia accused of fatally shooting a 7-year-old girl who was in a car with her family following a Christmas shopping outing in Atlanta, Georgia.
The young victim, Kennedy Maxie, was tragically struck by a stray bullet on December 21, 2020, near Phipps Plaza, a prominent shopping mall in Atlanta’s upscale Buckhead district. She succumbed to her injuries just days later, on December 26th, the day after Christmas. The incident sent shockwaves through the community and sparked a determined search for the perpetrator.
Daquan Reed, the suspect in the shooting death of Kennedy Maxie, was apprehended in Hampton, Virginia. (Photo: Atlanta Police Department)
Daquan Reed, 24, was arrested on Wednesday in Hampton, Virginia, by the U.S. Marshals Service. Atlanta police confirmed the arrest, stating that Reed is currently being extradited back to Atlanta to face charges. Reed, originally from Virginia, is charged with felony murder, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and reckless conduct.
The Atlanta Police Department has revealed details about the circumstances leading up to the shooting. Investigators believe the incident originated from an altercation between Reed and several other individuals in a parking lot near the mall. After the argument concluded, Reed reportedly left the scene in a vehicle. According to Atlanta Police Department homicide detective Lieutenant Pete Malecki, Reed then “discharged a firearm out [the car] window in a senseless act of rage.” At least three shots were fired, one of which tragically struck the vehicle Kennedy Maxie was traveling in.
This devastating incident unfolded against a backdrop of rising violence in Atlanta. 2020 marked the city’s deadliest year in over two decades, with more than 150 homicides recorded. The senseless death of Kennedy Maxie further underscored the urgent need to address the escalating violence plaguing the city.
Reed is currently awaiting extradition back to Atlanta, where he will face legal proceedings. It remains unknown at this time whether he has retained legal counsel.
The investigation into this tragic event continues as authorities work to piece together the events that led to the untimely death of a young girl. The arrest of Daquan Reed brings a measure of closure to Kennedy Maxie’s grieving family and the community, but the deep scars of this senseless act of violence will undoubtedly remain.
The Atlanta Police Department expressed their gratitude to the various agencies involved in the apprehension of Reed, including their own investigators, the Fugitive Team, and the U.S. Marshals Service. The collaborative effort resulted in the swift arrest of the suspect, demonstrating a commitment to justice for Kennedy Maxie and her family.
This tragic case highlights the devastating consequences of gun violence and the importance of community safety. As the legal process unfolds, Atlanta residents and the nation grapple with the profound loss of a young life cut short by a senseless act of violence.
The details surrounding the case continue to emerge, and further updates will be provided as they become available. The focus remains on seeking justice for Kennedy Maxie and offering support to her grieving family during this incredibly difficult time. The incident also serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued efforts to address gun violence and ensure the safety of our communities.
Conclusion:
The arrest of Daquan Reed marks a significant step in the pursuit of justice for Kennedy Maxie. This tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence on our communities. As the legal process moves forward, the focus will remain on holding the responsible party accountable and providing support to Kennedy’s grieving family. Furthermore, this incident underscores the critical need for ongoing efforts to address the root causes of violence and work towards creating safer communities for all.