Residents in the northeast are reacting to a violent night that left one child dead and four injured

SAN ANTONIO – It was a day of pain and disbelief in the northeastern community near where the attack took place that left one child dead and four others sustained gunshot wounds.

Neighbors talk about what should be done before the start of a long, hot summer when violence usually peaks.

Although Sheriff Javier Salazar said the incident was a targeted attack, neighbors said they found little comfort in that assessment given the amount of lead in the air.

Community members who care about everyone’s safety said this is a day to ask themselves what more can be done.

Adrienne House is a member of the nonprofit group San Antonio Fighting Back. She fights furiously about the impact of gun violence on children.

“If they start getting involved and getting hurt or killed, then the community needs to step in and say enough is enough,” House said. “Adults can do whatever they want, but it’s the children who make me speak my mind.”

The attack occurred in Precinct 4 and County Commissioner Tommy Calvert said when the bullets fly, it will be too late.

“We asked for $900,000 for community violence interventions, but the court denied it,” Calvert said.

Calvert said he would continue to seek funding for front-end solutions.

“You have to have someone in the community that you can trust to calm the waters and stop these crimes before they start,” Calvert said.

Grandfather Wesley Westbrooks said he lives nearby and drove by the scene of the accident to see the damage for himself.

“To tell you the truth, we do a lot of good fighting here,” Westbrooks said, adding that his family is involved in school and youth groups because it’s important to be connected.

Westbrooks said he would like to see more parents and grandparents involved in child protection programs.

“We’re going to do our part out here and hopefully get a break,” Westbrooks said.

San Antonio Fighting Back is preparing its summer programs to keep children safe, but they need community support.

If you would like to sponsor or help with snacks or participation gift cards, call 210-271-7232.

Adrianne House can be reached at [email protected].