BURNSVILLE, MN – A ripple of tragedy has struck a family in Burnsville following the fatal shooting of an eight-year-old boy, identified as Amir Harden. Last week, Harden was tragically killed while attempting to shield his mother, Cherish Edwards, from his aggressive father. He succumbed to his wounds over the weekend.
According to Cherish Edwards, the father aimed at her, but unfortunately, their son took the bullet. Mournfully, Edwards expressed disbelief at the horrific circumstances surrounding Harden’s death. He bravely tried to disarm an adult and refused to desert his mother despite her telling him to escape outside.
Post the shooting, the father reportedly shot himself in the presence of Edwards’ four other children. He is currently in critical condition at the hospital. Shaken by these tragic events, Edwards voiced concern for the trauma endured by all her children.
Law enforcement in Burnsville has opened an investigation into the tragic incident. Pending confirmation of the father’s survival, the city spokesperson indicated that they could explore pressing criminal charges.
As the family grapples with this nightmare scenario, Deon Edwards, Harden’s grandfather, and his mother remember him for his bright personality, athletic abilities, and his role as a motivator and protector of his siblings.
In the aftermath of the incident, which she says is the culmination of a history of violent behavior from Harden’s father, Edwards sends a stern warning to women grappling with abusive relationships, urging them to leave at the first signs of violence.
To alleviate the financial weight of moving costs and other related expenses, Edwards has established an online fundraising initiative.