Detroit, MI – A community is shattered and a family is in mourning following the tragic and untimely death of 6-year-old Rylee Love, a joyful and vibrant child who was killed by a stray bullet during a drive-by shooting on Detroit’s east side. Rylee, who was inside his home on Anglin Street near East McNichols and Joseph Campau on the night of Sunday, July 27, was struck in the head by a bullet that pierced the walls of his house — a place that should have been a haven.
What began as a typical summer evening turned into an unspeakable nightmare. Outside, gunfire erupted as at least two vehicles engaged in a shootout. Police recovered multiple rifle shell casings from the street, and investigators believe that a red Jeep may be connected to the incident and is currently being considered a vehicle of interest.
Inside the house, Rylee was simply being a child — likely playing, maybe talking to his parents or siblings, unaware of the chaos outside. In a tragic instant, one of the bullets traveled down the block, entered the family’s home, and struck Rylee in the head. He was rushed to the hospital, but despite all efforts, he did not survive.
The heartbreak felt by his family is immeasurable. His mother, in a gut-wrenching message on a GoFundMe page, described how the loss of her son has forever changed her world:
“Last night, my world changed forever when my 6-year-old son, Rylee, was taken from us by a stray bullet. Rylee was a risk taker, always full of life and energy. He loved swimming, playing with his siblings, and brought so much joy to our family. His love for his mom and dad was endless, and he was truly the highlight of my days.”
Rylee Love was more than just a victim of violence. He was a bright, adventurous little boy with a smile that could light up a room. His curiosity and energy were unmatched, his laughter infectious. In his short six years, Rylee made a deep impression on everyone who knew him. He was a loving son, a playful brother, and the heart of his household.
Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison called the shooting an unforgivable act of senseless violence, promising justice for Rylee and his grieving family:
“This is one of our most precious citizens, a resident of the city of Detroit, who lost their life tonight. We’ll catch you. Trust us when we say that. We have an excellent track record. We have technology and we will bring them to justice.”
The Detroit Police Department continues to actively investigate the case and is urging anyone with information about the shooting or the involved vehicles to come forward. Tips can be made anonymously, and even the smallest detail could help bring justice to the Love family.
Rylee’s death has sent shockwaves throughout the community. Friends, neighbors, and strangers have come together to offer support — both emotionally and financially — to his family during this devastating time. Vigils are being planned, memorials are growing with candles and stuffed animals, and a community is mourning the innocence that was stolen in a flash of violence.
In a city already struggling with the impacts of gun violence, Rylee’s death stands as a stark and painful reminder of the innocent lives that are often caught in the crossfire. His story is one no family should ever have to tell. His name now joins far too many others whose young lives were ended too soon.
As the investigation continues, the call for peace and justice grows louder. Rylee’s life mattered. His future was filled with promise, joy, and love. And though he is no longer physically with us, his memory will endure in the hearts of all who knew him — and in the cries for change from a community determined to ensure that no other child suffers the same fate.
Rest in peace, sweet Rylee Love. You were cherished. You are missed. And you will never be forgotten.
Leave a Reply