Family holds prayer circle for teen injured in Uptown shooting

Brittney Ermon

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Community members gathered Sunday at Hennepin County Medical Center to pray for the seven victims injured in last Thursday’s shooting in Uptown.

Minneapolis police said all of the victims are expected to survive.

The family of Mykia Carpenter, one of the shooting victims, organized the event.

"I’ve seen her grow up since she was a baby, and I’ve been right there with her. We’re extremely close. She’s like one of my best friends,” Sevion Dalton, Carpenter’s brother, said. “Seeing her right now during this time has made me stronger because she’s so strong and she’s been fighting so hard."

Community members showed up with posters, balloons and teddy bears to wish Carpenter a speedy recovery. Bishop Richard Howell led the group in prayer.

Carpenter is a North High School graduate. She was heading off to college in Chicago to become a nurse, but her plans are now on hold.

[KSTP]

The 18-year-old was leaving work in Uptown early Thursday morning when she was caught in the crossfire. A bullet went through her neck and damaged her vocal cords.

Minneapolis police said early information shows two people were shooting at each other in front of a business at the intersection of West Lake Street and Lyndale Avenue South.

Community leaders said protecting the youth should be a top priority across the board.

"It’s ridiculous. It’s sad and it’s not necessary for our young people to be in harm’s way that they are victimized over and over again,” Bishop Richard Howell, Shiloh Temple International Ministries pastor, said. “I can’t tell you how many of these that we’ve heard, how many we’ve seen. We’re grateful she’s [Mykia] going to survive."

The shooting is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Minneapolis police or CrimeStoppers.