Jamaican mother mourns Daniel after Waterbury shooting death

A Jamaican mother is grieving the death of her son Daniel, who she said was shot and killed in Waterbury, Connecticut, on May 6 after living in the United States with his father since childhood.

She recalled being overjoyed when she became pregnant, saying she had hoped for a boy. According to her, a pastor at church prayed for her during pregnancy and told her to name the child Daniel. She described him as cheerful, playful and loving, saying he lived with her until age 11 before going to the United States to stay with his father.

Even after the move, she said, their bond remained close. Daniel, she said, would become upset if she missed his call and would remind her to answer when he rang. Now, she said, the pain is worsened by knowing she will no longer hear his voice.

The mother said the call came while she was at work on May 6, sometime after 6 p.m. locally and after 7 p.m. in Connecticut. His father contacted her by video call and told her he had heard from a friend, William McQueen, that Daniel had been found dead in Waterbury with gunshot wounds. She said the news made her collapse, and at first she hoped it was a cruel prank. A co-worker helped use her phone to reach someone who could take her home.

She said she has since been told only that the report of his death is true. Relatives on his father's side are arranging a viewing in the United States, while family in Jamaica is preparing for his burial.

The mother said Daniel had spoken about joining the army and was expected to visit Jamaica this summer. Instead, she said, he will return in a way she never imagined.

She said three people were held in connection with the killing, including the alleged shooter and two others. Addressing those responsible, she asked why Daniel was targeted, saying he was not the aggressor. She appealed for the truth and asked parents to pray for their children and for her as she struggles with the loss.