Woman loses eye in MLK Park shooting

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - One of the five people shot in MLK Park over the weekend is speaking to News 4. She lost an eye when someone opened fire, just inches away from children playing.

Buffalo Police Commissioner Daniel Derenda told News 4 he believes this was a "deliberate act by a gunman," but an isolated incident. It was about 8:30 Saturday night when shots rang out at MLK Park.

Adults tried to push children to the ground as people started running. One of those attending the Mother's Day cookout was 27-year-old Shaneta Payne. The mother of six believes she was perhaps hit by the third shot fired.

It tore into her face, broke her nose, and cost her an eye. She found the courage to talk to News 4 by phone because she is now crying out for justice.

"It felt like something was exploding in my face," Payne said.

Payne's mother, Janine Chambers, said, "She got two big holes in her face.  The bullet went through her face, fractured all the bones in there and it came out through her eye, so she lost her eye."

Mayor Byron Brown said, "The Buffalo Police and other partners in law enforcement have been working on this issue around the clock."

Payne said everyone was enjoying themselves when this suddenly happened without warning.

She recalled, "There was kids all outside, so for them to do that with kids all over the playground... I was right in front of the playground. We had to push kids out of the way."

Payne hopes somebody who might know something will come forward and that the shooter will be brought to justice.

"He deserves to suffer the way I will suffer - for the rest of his life," said said.

Rev. Darius Pridgen told News 4 his church is organizing a party at the same location on Wednesday at 4 p.m. The community he says, must not bend to violence.

"Two clear messages. One, that we will not tolerate or take this type of violence by giving information. And two, returning back to normal and utilizing our parks and utilities like we always have," said Rev. Pridgen.

Those wounded are identified as 26-year-old Marquay Lee, 28-year-old Edmond Carter, both of whom were listed in critical condition. Those treated and released at ECMC were 20-year-old Aron Rose, 23-year-old Jahond Taylor, and 27-year-old Shaneta Payne.

Anyone with any information is urged to come forward. Give your tips confidentially by calling or texting Buffalo Police at 847-2255.