Fort Lauderdale, Florida – A 3-year-old boy was tragically killed during a drive-by shooting at a Sesame Street-themed birthday party, authorities said. Police say the shooting stemmed from a “beef” between adults, resulting in more than 20 shots fired at a party attendee, ultimately hitting the young child.
Incident Overview: Shooting at Riverland Park
The shooting occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m. during a birthday celebration at Riverland Park, 950 SW 27th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale. Investigators report that the shooters fired over 20 rounds, targeting a “patron” at the party. The birthday party’s theme, featuring Sesame Street characters, became an unintended backdrop for a deadly act of violence.
Authorities identified two vehicles involved: a 2022 red Mercedes Benz sedan and a 2017 black Mercedes Benz sedan.
Suspects Taken into Custody
Fort Lauderdale police confirmed that all suspects involved in the July 2024 shooting death of Rylo Yancy have been apprehended and charged.
- Andrew St. Louis: Charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and conspiracy to commit murder with a firearm; appeared in court Saturday after being captured in Tennessee.
- Co-suspects: Tommie Allen, 19, Antonio Carter, 20, and Tyler Hollins, 21; all face the same charges.
- Thaddeus Squire III: Arrested and charged as accessory after the fact.
Details from Investigation
According to court depositions and witness statements:
- Squire claimed he was driving one of the vehicles with Hollins as the “trigger person” during the drive-by.
- A female witness said the suspects were “flashing guns” and making jokes about shooting” prior to the incident.
- Squire reportedly admitted that they went to Riverland Park after seeing Instagram posts revealing the presence of their “opps” (opposition).
“The suspects in the red Mercedes, they had a gun,” the female witness said. “They were like flashing the gun, making jokes… And I felt a little bit uncomfortable.”
Squire allegedly admitted, “They were trying to get a person… and it hit the baby instead.”
Family Reaction
Rylo Yancy’s grandfather, Herrold Pough, told WPLG Miami,
“I can never heal, just when you think you are getting over it the rain comes storming again.”
Authorities emphasized the senseless nature of the crime. FLPD Sgt. Don Geiger said:
“Because of the acts of these cowards right here, a baby is killed because they had a beef with someone else at the party and they couldn’t control their anger.”
Safety and Legal Context
Police caution that arguments and personal disputes can escalate into deadly situations if firearms are involved. The suspects face serious criminal charges including first-degree murder, and the investigation remains ongoing as prosecutors prepare for trial.
Timeline of Events
- July 2024: Shooting at Rylo Yancy’s birthday party.
- March 2025: Hollins and Squire charged.
- September 2025: Remaining suspects arrested and charged.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Rylo Yancy highlights the devastating consequences of gun violence and uncontrolled disputes. Authorities urge community members to report threats and avoid confrontations that could put innocent lives at risk.
Share your thoughts or messages of support for the family in the comments below.
