07/23/09: Deadly Masten Shootings Spark Call for Peace in the Streets

Original YNN Buffalo Air Date: 07/23/09
Buffalo community leaders are calling for peace in the streets and an end to the violence in the city.
Police responded to four separate shootings along the city’s east side Wednesday night.
The first happened around 8:30 outside of the Delavan-Grider Community Center.
Police say 16 year old Michael Mayfield, was involved in an argument that started inside and then spilled onto the street.
The Delavan community came together to remember the teen shot and killed outside the community center. Community elders are calling for an end to gun violence around the Grider Street.
Family and friends gathered near the home of slain buffalo teen Michael Mayfield.
A candle filled memorial with picture filled the corner at Grider and Shuelle.
Vigil attendees say the 16 year old was gunned down outside the center following a fight inside. Many say it’s time to make the streets safe again.
“I was a couple of streets down on North Fimberlin when my mom called me and told me he got shot. But we really didn’t think that he was dead so we ran up to the center, and they had already taken his body up to ECMC,” said Mayfield’s cousin James Hicks
Mayfield was shot and taken to ECMC where he was declared dead on arrival.
“We ought to see with little Mikey being here that if we have some differences we should settle them with our hands and our fist. at least like in the old days. Instead of when people have a beef they automatically shoot each other,” said Mayfield’s family friend Nate Boyd.
Another shooting incident left 19 year old David Williams injured. Officials say he is expected to be okay.
Later in the evening, police were called to a shooting on Rother Avenue. There, two people were shot while they were standing outside. One victim remains hospitalized. The other was treated and released.
“We as a community can not tolerate this. People who want to do harm and destroy our community; we need to give them up. Some people don’t need to be in our community,” said Masten Common Councilmember Demone Smith
Police are asking anyone with information, call the buffalo police tip line at 847-2255.