The tragic death of seven-year-old Jeremiah Gustave has led to murder charges against Odel Garnette, known as “Crab,” after a stray bullet struck the boy in the head during a crossfire incident last July. The case has reignited public outcry over gun violence and the urgent need for justice for innocent victims.
Jeremiah’s ordeal began on July 9, 2024, as he sat at his mother’s food stall on Charles Street in Charlestown. An argument between two men nearby escalated into gunfire, and a stray bullet struck the young Smith’s Memorial Primary School student, who was just six at the time. He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he underwent life-saving surgery and multiple procedures in the months that followed.
Despite his mother’s unwavering care and hope for his recovery, Jeremiah’s condition remained critical. He endured several surgeries, including the installation of a shunt to relieve pressure on his brain, but his progress was slow. In early 2025, further complications required emergency intervention, and on March 29, after an eight-month battle, Jeremiah succumbed to his injuries at home.
The shooting initially led to charges against two men: Odel Garnette (“Crab”) and Marlon Wilburg (“Mice Man”). However, in October 2024, the Director of Public Prosecutions withdrew the case against Wilburg, citing insufficient evidence, a decision that has left the Gustave family frustrated and demanding answers. Garnette remained on remand for attempted murder, with the trial only beginning a week before Jeremiah’s death.
Jeremiah’s mother, Keisha Gustave, has been vocal in her grief and anger, calling for justice not just for her son, but for all victims of senseless gun violence. “Sorry cannot bring back my son. They all have to face the squeeze. I don’t want no money, let them keep their money. All I want is justice for Jeremiah,” she stated, vowing to continue her fight for accountability.
The case has highlighted the devastating impact of stray bullets and the challenges families face in seeking justice. As the legal process continues, the community stands in solidarity with the Gustave family, echoing their call for decisive action against those responsible for such tragedies.
