Marshania English, a mother in Valdosta, Georgia, states she has not received notification of a court date in the case of her 10-year-old son, Javion, who was shot in the face by a 9-year-old in September. The mother of the child involved in the shooting reportedly still lives only a few houses away from English, leading to daily encounters that English describes as a source of anger and distress for her family.
Javion was shot on Monday, September 7, at Brittany Woods Apartments, according to the Valdosta Police Department. Police officials reported that Javion and the 9-year-old were playing with a gun when it discharged. Following the incident, detectives obtained arrest warrants on September 9 for 46-year-old Andrea McClendon, the mother of the 9-year-old and the owner of the firearm used. McClendon faces charges of second-degree cruelty to children and reckless conduct, and police confirmed she turned herself in at the Lowndes County Jail on September 14. Additionally, through the Department of Juvenile Justice, detectives charged the 9-year-old boy with reckless conduct and possession of a firearm by a minor.
Javion has since returned home, though he is not yet back in school full time with his usual activities, English reported. While he is attending school, he is not currently participating in physical education. English noted that her son experiences emotional ups and downs since the shooting. She described the initial days as very emotional and said she now watches her son more closely. Javion described sitting outside as peaceful. When asked about his adjustment, Javion responded that he was doing well.
The 10-year-old recounted the moments leading up to the shooting, stating the other boy asked if he wanted to see his mother’s gun. Javion said he agreed but warned the boy not to point it at him or load it with bullets. However, Javion stated, the boy then pointed the gun at him, inserted bullets, cocked it back, and locked the door. Javion attempted to disarm the boy, pushing the gun down. After a period of quiet, Javion approached the door and was shot. He emphasized his mother's paramount importance to him.
English expressed her feeling that "no justice has been served." She stated that the other family is still able to go out, grocery shop, and continue their lives, while her son faces the burden of explaining his injuries, such as marks on his neck and issues with his teeth. English believes the legal system failed her and her son, particularly after McClendon’s quick release from custody. She reiterated that she has not been informed of any court date in the case. English said she feels overwhelmed by the ongoing situation, noting that Javion now needs therapy, which she anticipates he will deal with for the rest of his life. She expressed that she would feel more at peace if either her family or the other family moved. To assist with Javion’s recovery, English said a GoFundMe has been established to help cover his dental costs, specifically aiming to get him veneers.