Mother of 13-year-old boy killed in 2009 recounts trauma as another boy the same age is shot at the same location.

A Queens mother is grappling with the devastation of a tragic event that has resurfaced her painful past. On September 22, 2025, a 13-year-old boy was shot in the head at the very same location where her own son, Kevin Miller Jr., was fatally struck by a stray bullet 16 years ago. This location, near the intersections of Springfield and Linden Boulevards in Cambria Heights, has now marked two tragic incidents involving young lives lost to gun violence, igniting sorrow and outrage within the community.

Donna Hood-Greaves, the mother of Kevin, expressed her profound despair upon learning that the street corner renamed in her son’s memory has become the scene of yet another senseless act of violence. The recent victim was reportedly shot on his way to school, raising serious concerns about public safety in areas where young children are expected to traverse safely. Hood-Greaves’s emotions were palpable as she recounted the sting of hearing about the new shooting so close to where her son lost his life.

Tragically, history seems to be repeating itself. The boy injured in the recent shooting shares the same age as Kevin was when he was killed on the afternoon of October 2, 2009. The latest victim was quickly transported to Cohen Children’s Medical Center, the same facility that treated Kevin at the time of his death. In stark contrast, the recent victim remains alive, partly due to a wave of prayers from family, friends, and even Hood-Greaves herself, who has vowed to keep the child and his family in her thoughts during this harrowing time.

Hood-Greaves has devoted much of her time to honoring her son’s legacy through community initiatives such as scholarship fundraisers aimed at supporting local students. She finds it imperative to continue keeping Kevin’s spirit alive, as she recalls fond moments spent with him, such as selecting outfits for school. These bittersweet memories emphasize the depth of loss she experiences, especially as she reflects on how the violence has impacted her family.

The recent shooting incident has intensified discussions surrounding gun violence in New York City, particularly in neighborhoods struggling with safety. Official reports indicate that while citywide crime statistics have shown a decline in shooting incidents, the struggles of neighborhoods like Cambria Heights suggest that many residents remain unconvinced of a substantial decrease in violence. This stark disconnect highlights the need for continued community vigilance and proactive measures to combat gun violence.

Hood-Greaves, deeply disturbed by the occurrences of violence, expressed skepticism toward crime statistics presented by law enforcement. The persistent threat of gun violence continues to overshadow the daily lives of families in these areas, emphasizing an ongoing crisis that deeply affects communities. The recent tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need to address the root causes of such profound societal issues.

As the city grapples with this emotional backdrop, the voices of grieving mothers like Hood-Greaves stand as powerful testaments to the personal toll of gun violence, urging policy-makers and the community alike to take decisive action toward fostering a safer environment for all.