Winston-Salem police have released new details in a mass shooting at a city park that left two juveniles dead and several others injured.
According to the Winston-Salem Police Department, the shooting occurred Monday at Leinbach Park and stemmed from a planned fight between two juveniles.
Investigators said a 14-year-old female and a 16-year-old female had arranged to meet at the park to fight. As word spread, a group of about 15 juveniles and adults gathered, some intending to participate and others to watch or record the altercation.
Police said the situation escalated after the initial fight, leading to multiple confrontations among those in attendance. During the incident, Daniel Jiminez Milian, 16, and Erubey Romero Medina, 17, became involved in a verbal altercation, while Joel Michael Gamble-Toliver, 18, and Steven Villanueva, 17, engaged in a physical fight.
Authorities said the violence escalated further when Milian and Gamble-Toliver produced firearms and began shooting. Investigators said Milian fired toward multiple individuals, including Medina and Gamble-Toliver, while Gamble-Toliver fired in Milian’s direction.
Milian and Medina were both struck during the exchange of gunfire and died at the scene.
Five others were injured, including a 14-year-old female, a 15-year-old female, a 17-year-old female, 18-year-old Gamble-Toliver, and a 19-year-old female. Police said injuries ranged from minor to serious.
As part of the ongoing investigation, officers arrested 21-year-old Yamilet Jimenez-Milian on charges of felony inciting to riot. She is being held on a 24-hour hold and is expected to receive a $50,000 secured bond.
Gamble-Toliver has also been charged with felony child abuse and felony riot for his role in the incident. Villanueva has been charged as an adult with felony inciting to riot.
Police said the investigation remains active, and additional charges are expected.
Police Chief William H. Penn Jr. praised officers and first responders for their handling of what he described as a chaotic and tragic scene, while also acknowledging the community’s concern and interest in the case.
Authorities said North Carolina law limits the release of information related to juveniles, including names and booking photos, unless they are charged as adults.
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Winston-Salem Police Department.
