An 11-year-old girl is fighting for her life after being shot in the head while riding in her father’s car in Antioch, California, northeast of San Francisco. The devastating incident has left her family traumatized, and her father recently shared the heartbreaking question she asked immediately after the attack.
According to Antioch police, the shooting took place on January 5 as the girl sat in the front passenger seat of her father’s car, preparing to leave an apartment complex. A gunman fired at the vehicle, with one bullet piercing the rear windshield and striking the young girl in the head. She was rushed to UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital for emergency care.
Her father described the first words she spoke after being shot. “She looked at me and said, ‘Dad, why can’t I see?’” he said. “Hearing that is something no parent should ever experience. It tears your heart apart.”
Family Devastated by the Attack
The girl’s aunt, Anahi Ramirez, expressed her anguish at seeing her niece in intensive care. “I’m still in shock. It’s hard to believe this happened. As her Godmother and her aunt, it’s incredibly painful to see her like that,” Ramirez shared.
The father said he had seen the shooter but did not recognize him. Antioch police Lieutenant Bill Whitaker confirmed that the family had felt unsafe returning home following the incident and called for improved security at the apartment complex.
Suspect Turns Himself In
On January 12, authorities reported that the suspect, identified as Ryan Hardy, turned himself in to the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office. Lt. Whitaker stated, “After multiple conversations over the past week, the family facilitated his surrender. He is now in custody.”
Signs of Recovery
Doctors initially feared the worst for the young girl, as the shooting caused her to temporarily lose her sight and ability to walk. Thankfully, medical professionals are now seeing encouraging signs. “She is beginning to regain her eyesight and can now walk again,” said Lt. Whitaker. “It’s a long journey, but her progress is promising.”
Family Seeks Support
To help cover emergency expenses, relocation costs, and ongoing medical care, the girl’s family has launched a GoFundMe campaign, which has already raised nearly $25,000. The fundraiser explains that the family must relocate permanently for safety, leaving their home and jobs behind, while supporting the recovery of their daughter and caring for her three siblings.
The GoFundMe page emphasizes the emotional and financial toll of the incident: “Her road ahead will require extensive medical treatment, therapy, and long-term emotional support. The trauma affects the entire family, who now face the impossible task of rebuilding their lives in a safe environment.”
Our thoughts remain with the 11-year-old girl, her family, and everyone affected by this tragic event.