Authorities in South Carolina are urgently seeking suspects after a tragic drive-by shooting left a 7-year-old girl critically injured from a gunshot wound to the head The heartbreaking incident occurred late Sunday evening in a residential neighborhood of North Charleston, sending shockwaves through the tight-knit community and prompting an all-out manhunt for those responsible.

According to the North Charleston Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire around 9:30 p.m. in the 2700 block of Ranger Drive. Upon arrival, they discovered the young girl suffering from a severe head injury caused by a bullet. Emergency medical personnel quickly rendered aid at the scene before transporting her to a local hospital, where she remains in critical condition. The identity of the child has not been publicly released due to her age and out of respect for the family’s privacy.

Initial investigations reveal that the child was playing outside near her home when an unidentified vehicle drove by and opened fire. Authorities believe she was not the intended target of the shooting but was instead caught in the crossfire of what appears to be a targeted attack. Shell casings recovered at the scene suggest multiple rounds were fired, heightening concerns that the perpetrators acted with reckless disregard for human life.

North Charleston Police Chief Reggie Burgess issued a somber statement Monday morning, condemning the violence and pledging to bring the shooters to justice. “This is every parent’s nightmare. A child, just 7 years old, was outside enjoying her evening when her life was changed in an instant by senseless violence,” Chief Burgess said. “Let me be clear: we will not rest until those responsible for this horrific act are behind bars.”

Detectives are currently canvassing the neighborhood for surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses in hopes of identifying the vehicle involved. Community members have also been urged to come forward with any information that could aid in the investigation. “We need your help,” the chief implored. “Someone knows who did this. Don’t stay silent—do the right thing.”

Residents of the area say gun violence has become a troubling and all-too-common issue. Several people expressed their fear and frustration over the growing number of shootings that often claim the lives of innocent bystanders. “We’re tired. We’re scared,” said one neighbor who wished to remain anonymous. “Our children can’t even play outside without the fear of getting hurt. This has to stop.”

Local leaders and activists have also rallied around the family and called for increased efforts to curb gun violence in the city. A candlelight vigil is being planned for later this week to pray for the child’s recovery and to honor victims of gun violence. Organizers hope it will bring awareness to the urgent need for change and accountability.

As of now, police have not released a description of the suspect vehicle or potential shooters, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. Authorities have asked anyone with information, no matter how small, to contact Crime Stoppers of the Lowcountry at 1-843-554-1111. Tips can be submitted anonymously and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Meanwhile, the family of the injured girl remains at her bedside, clinging to hope for her recovery. In a statement shared through a family spokesperson, they asked for prayers and privacy as they navigate this unimaginable ordeal. “Our little girl is a fighter,” the statement read. “Please pray for her healing and for justice to be served.”

This latest act of violence underscores a grim reality in many American cities, where innocent children are too often the victims of gunfire meant for others. As the investigation continues, the community waits anxiously, not just for justice—but for an end to the violence that continues to plague their streets