BURLINGTON, NC – The mother of a seven-year-old boy who was killed by a stray bullet in Burlington last week, Ashley Welcher, is seeking justice for her son, Mason Jenkins. Recounting her loss, she described her son as the bond that kept their family united.
The family had relocated to Beaumont Avenue Apartments only three months ago. Presently, the family finds the apartment unbearable after her son was struck by a random bullet outside the premises.
Mason’s innocent wish to go outside and play like other kids ended in a tragedy. The spot where the boy was last sighted has now been marked with a memorial. Since then, Mason’s sister, apprehensive of her safety, holds back from returning home.
Being unable to fathom the incident, the family tries to reconstruct the tragic happening. While most of the day on Thursday was spent indoors, the children were allowed to go outside in the evening. That was when Mason was hit by a stray bullet, injuring his upper body. The boy was airlifted to the hospital.
The family held a prayer vigil on Sunday in memory of Mason, remembering the joy and love he had spread in his lifetime. His mother poignantly remembered him as a ‘sweet, precious little baby’ who had his whole life ahead of him and his love for football. Welcher is determined to seek justice for her son’s untimely death.
Burlington Mayor Jim Butler assured the grieving family of the city’s support in seeking justice for Mason. He assured taking concrete steps that police would require to maintain public safety at all costs.
Two suspects have been detained in connection with the shooting that had over a dozen witnesses present. As a part of their obligation towards the community, Butler urged everyone to offer their love and support to the grieving family and come forward with any vital information about the shooting.