BALTIMORE, Md. — A Baltimore community is reeling after a 28-year-old man was arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a 12-year-old girl. The suspect, Omar Passmore, was taken into custody on Sunday morning in Baltimore County, facing charges of first-degree murder.
The incident, which claimed the life of Breaunna Cormley, occurred around 8 p.m. Friday at a residence in the 500 block of North Kenwood Avenue. The young victim was pronounced dead at the scene, marking a tragic and senseless loss that has shaken the locality.
In a statement expressing deep sorrow and outrage, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott condemned the act of violence. “This young lady had her entire future ahead of her, yet it was stolen by acts of sheer cowardice,” Scott said. “Whether targeted or not, at the end of the day, it was a child, and that is what is most appalling.”
The shooting has sparked a broader conversation about gun violence and its impact on communities, particularly on children. Advocates for stricter gun control are using this incident as a stark example of the urgent need for legislative action.
Community leaders, including local activists and educators, have organized vigils and are calling for initiatives to promote safety and prevent such tragedies. “Our community needs to come together to ensure our children can grow up in an environment where they feel safe,” one community leader expressed during a candlelight vigil held for Breaunna.
The police continue their investigation, urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. They are particularly interested in understanding the circumstances that led to this devastating event, noting that every piece of information is crucial for building a comprehensive case.
As the legal process begins, the community is focusing on healing and reflecting on the changes needed to prevent future loss. In Breaunna’s honor, several community centers are discussing programs aimed at engaging youth and curbing the appeal of gun violence.
The case also highlights ongoing concerns regarding the efficacy of current policing strategies and community policing efforts. Experts in criminal justice and community safety emphasize the importance of collaborative approaches that include education, local governance, and community participation.
In remembrance of Breaunna, her school plans to establish a scholarship fund to help young girls achieve their dreams in arts and sciences, reflecting her own interests and aspirations.
As the city mourns, Mayor Scott and other officials have reiterated their commitment to combating gun violence with renewed vigor, ensuring that Baltimore’s children have the opportunity to thrive in a safer, more nurturing environment.