Brooklyn gang members convicted in shootings resulting in toddler’s death

April 19, 2024 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

After a six-month jury trial at the Kings County Supreme Court, Criminal Term, located at 320 Jay St., four defendants have been convicted of a shooting that resulted in a toddler’s death on the streets of Bed-Stuy. Brooklyn Eagle photo by Rob Abruzzese

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Four members of the Hoolies gang have been convicted in a string of violent acts, including the tragic shooting death of 22-month-old Davell Gardner Jr. during a Bedford-Stuyvesant cookout, Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez announced on Wednesday. The verdict concludes a rigorous six-month jury trial.

“Today’s verdict sends a clear message that Brooklyn’s streets will not be playgrounds for gang wars,” District Attorney Gonzalez said.

“The reckless bloodshed perpetrated by these individuals not only robbed the innocent Davell Gardner Jr. of a future but has also left an indelible scar on our community,” Gonzalez continued. “These defendants will be held accountable for their horrific crimes, and my office stands unwavering in our fight against the scourge of gang violence in our neighborhoods.”

The defendants, identified as Travis Scott, Dashawn Austin, Jayquan Lane and Akeem Artis, are linked to a series of homicides and shootings aimed at demonstrating gang dominance and retaliating against rivals. The trial took place before Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Danny Chun, resulting in various charges, including murder, attempted murder, reckless endangerment and criminal possession of a weapon.

On July 12, 2020, Austin and Artis executed a drive-by shooting at a local park cookout, leading to the death of young Davell and wounding three others. Austin, who pulled the trigger, and Artis, the driver, faced severe charges for their actions that day.

The evidence presented in court depicted a harrowing picture of gang warfare within the Hoolies’ territory, primarily based around the Roosevelt housing development. Other convictions included a 2018 incident where Travis Scott was found guilty of murdering Tyree Walker and attempting to kill another man on the same night.

Sentencing for Artis is scheduled for May 1, 2024, and May 8, 2024, for the other three defendants.