WEST END, Ohio — The community is mourning the loss of an 11-year-old girl who was shot and killed while playing at Laurel Park, a tragedy that has left her family devastated and demanding answers. QueenEr’Re Reed, affectionately known as Queenie, was playing with her cousins when the gunfire erupted, prompting her father, Erick Reed, to express profound grief over the senseless act.
“I feel like part of me is gone,” Erick said. “I’m not just sad or mad; I’m deeply hurt. I need to understand why this happened.” Family and friends are rallying in support, organizing a peace walk to remember Queenie and advocate for safety improvements in the area.
Erick reflected on his daughter’s joyful spirit, recalling how she was always a source of happiness for her family. “She was my everything. She was always cheering for her brother during his football games,” he said. “Now, he can’t recover that loss, and neither can any of us.”
The forthcoming march will stretch from Laurel Park to District One Police Headquarters, aiming to raise awareness about the urgent need for enhanced security measures. Erick emphasized the necessity of installing surveillance cameras in high-risk zones, a demand that has been echoed by other community members.
“This is a crime-ridden area, and there should have been cameras already in place,” he said. Despite past assurances from city officials regarding funding for security measures, questions linger about their actual implementation. Cincinnati City Council Member Mark Jeffreys acknowledged the urgency, stating, “We have the funding in place; we just need to ensure the cameras are installed.”
Community leaders, including West End Community Council President Galen Gordon, voiced frustration over the delays. “We’re talking about lives here. Let’s eliminate the red tape and make this happen.”
In response to the tragedy, law enforcement is intensifying its efforts to locate the shooter. A new camera was installed in Laurel Park as the investigation continues. “If anyone has information, please come forward. This act was senseless,” Erick pleaded, highlighting the need for community involvement in resolving the case.
As Queenie’s family prepares for her funeral, planned for January 17, the collective grief of the community serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of gun violence. The loss of a young life has ignited conversations about safety and the need for action in neighborhoods plagued by crime.