Burnsville, Minnesota – An 8-year-old boy in Minnesota was tragically killed last week while protecting his mother from his violent father. Amir Demarion Harden died on June 9 from complications after being shot in the head and neck on June 6. The incident occurred shortly after the boy’s father, Danair Harden, was released from jail on domestic violence charges. Harden allegedly returned to the family’s apartment in a rage, leading to a fatal confrontation.
According to the boy’s mother, Cherish Edwards, Amir bravely attempted to wrestle the gun out of his father’s hand to protect her. Edwards pleaded for her son to go to the neighbors for safety, but he refused, saying, “Mommy, I’m not leaving you here.” Tragically, the confrontation ended with Danair Harden shooting himself in the head after accidentally shooting his son. Amir’s four siblings witnessed the horrifying incident, leaving them deeply traumatized.
Danair Harden remains in critical condition at a hospital, and an investigation is ongoing. Authorities are trying to determine whether the child was specifically targeted. Carissa Larsen, a spokesperson for the city of Burnsville, stated, “We don’t know that the child was an intended target, and that’s part of what is still under investigation.”
Prior to the shooting, Danair Harden was facing allegations in Dakota County District Court for choking Cherish Edwards during an argument. The incident occurred on May 30, after Edwards expressed her desire to end their 10-year relationship. Edwards had called the police, advising them that Harden likely had a gun and a permit to carry. Despite her concerns, bail was set at $4,000 during Harden’s hearing, and he was released later that day. Approximately seven hours later, the tragic shooting took place.
The family has set up a GoFundMe page to collect funds for moving expenses and therapy for the traumatized siblings.