Investigators say a planned fight escalated into gunfire involving multiple suspects.
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Police have filed additional charges in a deadly park shooting that killed two teenagers, saying the violence stemmed from a planned fight that drew a crowd and escalated into a chaotic exchange of gunfire.
The latest developments highlight the expanding scope of the investigation, with several suspects now facing charges ranging from rioting to inciting violence. Authorities say they are still working to determine each person’s role in the shooting.
The incident occurred the morning of April 20 at Leinbach Park, where officers responded to reports of a fight involving juveniles. Investigators said the confrontation had been arranged in advance and attracted about 15 people, including participants and spectators. As the situation intensified, gunfire broke out before officers arrived at the scene.
Two teenagers, 16-year-old Daniel Jimenez Milian and 17-year-old Erubey Romero Medina, were killed. Five others, ranging in age from 14 to 19, were wounded. Police said some victims may have also been involved in the shooting, adding complexity to the case as detectives work to piece together the sequence of events.
Authorities said two newly charged juveniles face counts tied to felony rioting and have been charged as adults. Earlier arrests included a 21-year-old woman accused of inciting the confrontation, along with other suspects connected to the violence. Officials have not released full details about all individuals involved but said additional charges could follow.
Investigators believe the altercation began as a dispute between two teenage girls but quickly expanded as others joined in. At some point, at least two individuals began firing weapons, leading to multiple people being struck. Officers arriving at the park found victims and others fleeing the area.
The park is located near schools and residential neighborhoods, prompting temporary safety measures at nearby campuses while police secured the scene. Officials said the area was later deemed safe, and normal operations resumed.
Law enforcement officials said the case has required extensive coordination, including interviews with witnesses, review of social media and video recordings, and forensic analysis. Detectives are also working with prosecutors to determine how charges should be applied to each suspect.
Police Chief William Penn said the incident reflects broader concerns about youth violence and unsupervised gatherings, describing the shooting as preventable. Community leaders have echoed those concerns, pointing to the need for intervention before conflicts escalate.
Authorities said court proceedings for several suspects are expected soon, with hearings scheduled in the coming days. Prosecutors will determine whether additional counts, including more serious charges, are warranted based on the evidence.
Investigators say the case remains open, and they continue to seek information about others who may have been present during the shooting.
Author note: Last updated April 29, 2026.