In the summer of 2020, a tragedy unfolded in Gary, Indiana, forever altering the lives of a local family. On the evening of July 17th, 14-year-old Traeshaun B. Toney was enjoying a game of basketball with other children near his home. It was a typical summer day that took a devastating turn when his older brother, Tyjuan King, 24, appeared and opened fire on the group. The children scattered, but King returned to the scene and fired multiple times, striking Traeshaun.
When police responded to a call about a person shot near East 8th Avenue and Kentucky Street at approximately 6:26 p.m., they found Traeshaun unresponsive in the back of a home, suffering from gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation into the young male's death quickly revealed a heartbreaking family dynamic. Tyjuan King, who had a history of mental health challenges, including a diagnosis of schizophrenia, was identified as the shooter. His mother, Tashell Toney, had made numerous attempts over the years to get him the help he needed, including hospitalizations and counseling. Despite these efforts, King struggled to adhere to his medication and experienced episodes of hallucinations, often losing touch with reality. This tragic incident highlighted the devastating intersection of mental illness and violence.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Tyjuan King was charged with the murder of his younger brother. In a case that underscored the complexities of the justice system when dealing with mental health, King eventually pleaded guilty but mentally ill. During the emotional sentencing in October 2021, the court heard from their mother, who described the profound and lasting impact of the tragedy on their family. The judge, acknowledging King's remorse and the significant role his mental health condition played in the events, sentenced him to 45 years in prison.
