Dallas Police Apprehend Suspect Involved in Death of 2-Year-old Child

The Dallas Police Department and partner agencies made an arrest in connection with the April shooting death of a 2-year-old child in the Cedar Crest area last month.

The department put out a press release with details about the arrest on Monday. According to the press release, the department responded to a shooting call in the 1700 block of Hemphill Dr. at approximately 1:20 p.m. on April 23.

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After a preliminary investigation, officers determined that a 2-year-old child had suffered an apparent gunshot wound. The child was taken to a local hospital and later died.

The main individual of interest in the case was 25-year-old Toderick Austin, who allegedly fled the scene prior to the officers' arrival. Due to the nature of the case, DPD's Child Abuse Unit coordinated with the Violent Crimes, Safer Streets, and Fugitive Task Force units to conduct the investigation.

Detectives searched Austin's social media accounts and that led to a breakthrough in the case. The investigative team located Austin and an additional individual identified as 18-year-old Javyveion Burnley. Police said they found several firearms and illegal narcotics at the location and arrested both men.

Austin is being charged with multiple offenses, including Make Firearm Accessible to a Child - Death/SBI and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. Burnley is being charged with Possession of Prohibited Weapons.

"This was a tremendously heartbreaking case that deeply affected the community of Dallas," said Chief Daniel C. Comeaux. "I'm incredibly thankful that this department was not only able to bring justice and closure to this incident but also make our streets safer by recovering firearms that were sure to be used in future crimes. I could not be prouder of the officers and their work on this case."