3 Convicted in Drive-By Shooting of 5-Year-Old: Family’s Ongoing Fight for Justice

TEMPE, Ariz. — Three gang members received prison sentences for their role in the tragic death of five-year-old Jayceon Burton, who was shot in a drive-by incident more than two years ago, according to court records.

On the day of the shooting in March 2023, just before his sixth birthday, Jayceon was caught in crossfire while stopped at a red light. The gang members targeted a car containing seven people, including him.

“To have him robbed of that is heartbreaking,” said his aunt, who chose to remain anonymous for safety reasons. Her voice trembled as she remembered Jayceon’s vibrant spirit, a child who relished sports and cherished his siblings.

Witnesses reported that after the light turned green, the gang fired over 20 rounds into the vehicle, resulting in Jayceon’s death. Two additional passengers, a 17-year-old boy and an 8-year-old girl, were wounded in the attack.

Following the shooting, the gunmen returned to the scene to record a video. They taunted the situation, a behavior that deeply distressed Jayceon’s family. “They videotaped my nephew dying and posted it, mocking him,” his aunt expressed, questioning how such individuals could receive a relatively lenient sentence.

Three assailants pled guilty to multiple felonies, including second-degree murder. Freddy Patterson, 18, and Charles Adams, 19, each received 30-year sentences, while Alfred Gary, also 18, was sentenced to 16 years.

Although the aunt feels a measure of justice has been served, she commented, “It would be better if it were longer.” Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell emphasized the need to combat gang violence, stating, “Those who act with no regard for human life have no place in our society.”

Another suspect, Demarcus Frazier, 32, remains in custody and awaits trial on several serious charges, including first-degree murder.

Jayceon’s family continues to seek justice, wanting his memory to be honored rather than that of his attackers. “We want him to be remembered, not them,” his aunt stated poignantly.