Detroit, MI – A community is reeling in grief and a family is forever changed after the heartbreaking death of 6-year-old Rylee Love, a vibrant and joyful child killed by a stray bullet during a drive-by shooting on Detroit’s east side. The tragedy unfolded on the night of Sunday, July 27, 2025, inside Rylee’s home on Anglin Street, near East McNichols and Joseph Campau, a place where he should have been safe.
What started as an ordinary summer evening turned into an unimaginable nightmare. Around 9 p.m., gunfire erupted in the Cadillac Heights neighborhood as at least two vehicles—a red Jeep and a black sedan, with possibly a third vehicle involved—engaged in a shootout. Detroit police recovered multiple rifle shell casings from the street, evidence of the reckless violence that unfolded. One of those bullets pierced the walls of Rylee’s home, striking the young boy as he played inside, stealing his life in an instant.
Despite being rushed to a hospital, Rylee could not be saved. The stray bullet, fired with no regard for the lives nearby, ended the life of a child described by his family as a “bright spirit” and a “risk taker, always full of life and energy.”
Rylee’s mother, Tarhesha Love, shared her unimaginable pain in a heartfelt message on a GoFundMe page created to cover the costs of her son’s sudden death: “Last night, my world changed forever when my 6-year-old son, Rylee, was taken from us by a stray bullet. He loved swimming, playing with his siblings, and brought so much joy to our family. His love for his mom and dad was endless, and he was truly the highlight of my days.” Rylee’s father, Terrance Neal, expressed his devastation, saying, “It was just one shot. That’s all it took. It’s indescribable. When you can’t smell your baby’s breath anymore … when he can’t tell you he loves you. It’s crushing. My world is crushed.”
Rylee Love was a beacon of light in his short six years. Known for his infectious smile, boundless curiosity, and love for Spider-Man, Bluey, and swimming, he was a cherished son, a playful brother, and the heart of his family. His artistic spirit and adventurous nature left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.
Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison addressed the tragedy with a resolute promise of justice, calling Rylee’s death a “senseless action” that claimed one of the city’s “most precious citizens.” Speaking at a news conference near Anglin and Stender avenues, Bettison said, “Unfortunately, when shots are fired in a residential neighborhood, you don’t know where they’re going to end. Our officers, my detectives, will not rest until we bring this perpetrator to justice.” He urged anyone involved in the shooting, or with knowledge of it, to come forward, stating, “If you were not the shooter, now is the time to tell us who was, because a young life was taken.”
The Detroit Police Department is actively investigating the case, aided by ShotSpotter technology that alerted officers to the gunfire, allowing them to arrive at the scene within 30 seconds of the 911 call. Authorities are seeking information about the red Jeep, black sedan, and a possible third vehicle involved. A $5,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest, with tips accepted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP or online at DetroitRewards.TV.
Rylee’s death has galvanized the Detroit community, already weary from the toll of gun violence. Vigils are being organized, with candles, stuffed animals, and heartfelt tributes piling up in Rylee’s memory. Community members, friends, and strangers have rallied to support the Love family, both emotionally and through contributions to the GoFundMe page, reflecting a collective resolve to honor Rylee’s life and seek justice.
In a city grappling with a surge in youth gun violence—seven young people shot in less than a week earlier this summer—Rylee’s death is a painful reminder of the innocent lives caught in the crossfire. Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison and community leaders have been working to curb such violence, with increased enforcement of curfews and community anti-violence initiatives, yet the loss of Rylee underscores the urgent need for change.
Rylee Love’s life was brimming with promise, his days filled with laughter, love, and the simple joys of childhood. Though his time was cut tragically short, his memory endures in the hearts of his family, his community, and all who are touched by his story. As Detroit mourns, the call for peace and justice grows louder, with a shared determination to ensure no other child suffers Rylee’s fate.
Rest in peace, sweet Rylee Love. You were cherished. You are missed. And you will never be forgotten.