Arizona Teens Sentenced in Tragic Drive-By Shooting of 5-Year-Old; Filmed ‘Victory Lap’ After Crime

Tempe, AZ — In a deeply disturbing case that has shocked the community, three young men have been sentenced for their involvement in the fatal drive-by shooting of 5-year-old Landyn Brooks in Tempe, Arizona. The perpetrators—Alfred Gary, 18; Freddy Patterson, 18; and Charles Adams, 20—were convicted for their roles in the July 2024 incident that also injured two others.

The Crime

On July 13, 2024, the trio carried out a drive-by shooting targeting a vehicle occupied by 28-year-old Arkia “Kia” Berry, her 5-year-old son Landyn Brooks, and her boyfriend Eric Ashley Jr. All three were killed in the attack. Investigators revealed that the shooting was a result of a gang-related dispute.

Disturbing Aftermath

In a chilling turn, after the shooting, the assailants returned to the scene to film a video, described by prosecutors as a “twisted victory lap.” The footage, later posted on social media, showed the trio boasting about the shooting, further compounding the grief of the victims’ families.

Sentencing and Reactions

This week, the court handed down sentences to the three men, with each receiving life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. During the sentencing, family members of the victims delivered emotional statements, expressing their anguish and the devastating impact of the crime on their lives.

“Our lives have been shattered,” said a relative of Landyn Brooks. “No sentence can bring back our loved ones, but we hope this brings some measure of justice.”

Broader Implications

The case has reignited discussions about gang violence and the influence of social media in glorifying criminal acts. Community leaders and law enforcement officials are calling for increased efforts to combat gang activity and prevent such tragedies in the future.

As the community mourns the loss of innocent lives, the hope remains that heightened awareness and proactive measures will help prevent similar incidents.