Eight charged in fatal shooting of 2-year-old on April 9

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Eight people are facing charges related to the fatal shooting of 2-year-old John Swoveland Jr. while playing in his aunt's front yard with a sibling.

Swoveland was playing in the front yard of 1002 Campeau Street around 6:320 p.m. on Wednesday April 9 when he was shot in the head by a stray bullet.

Four adults and four minors are facing charges. Police say they believe five of the suspects are in the same gang and that the toddler was shot by a stray bullet in a gang-related shooting.

The following people are facing charges. Two are not in custody.

Robert L Griffin, 19

  • Murder (felony)
  • Attempted murder (Class A felony)
  • Not in custody

Tarez Buchanon, 19

  • Murder (felony)
  • Attempted murder (Class A felony)
  • Gang enhancement

Tyre Bradbury, 15

  • Aiding in murder (felony)
  • Gang enhancement
  • Detained

Cedric Washington Jr, 15

  • Assisting a criminal (Class C felony)
  • Gang enhancement
  • Detained

Daniel Williams, 17

  • Assisting a criminal (Class C felony)
  • Gang enhancement
  • Carrying a handgun (C felony)
  • Bond $1000,000/$10,000

Joshua Hodge, 18

  • Assisting a criminal (Class C felony)
  • Bond $1000,000/$10,000

Xavier Primm, 23

  • Assisting a criminal (Class C felony)
  • Not in custody

Malcolm Buchanon, 17

  • Assisting a criminal (Class C felony)
  • Gang enhancement
  • Detained
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