BK Gang Members Sent To Prison For Fatal Shootings, Killed Boy, 1: DA

BROOKLYN, NY — Three Brooklyn gang members convicted for the murder of a 1-year-old boy — along with a series of fatal gang-related shootings — were sentenced to prison on Wednesday, authorities announced.

Travis Scott and Dashawn Austin, both of Bed-Stuy, were sentenced to 40 years in prison, according to Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez. Deshaun Austin was given a 50-year sentence.

The trio were a part of the "Hoolies" gang that had territory in parts of Brooklyn between 2018 and 2021, according to the district attorney.

Austin in July 2020 was seen entering the passenger seat of a car by driven by Artis, that turned on to Madison Street, near a park in n Bed-Stuy where there was a cookout. Austin fired into the park, striking and killing 22-month-old Davell Gardner, Jr. and three other people, prosecutors said.

Four months earlier, Austin shot and killed Janile Whitted, 27, after he left a nightclub, prosecutors said.

Scott fatally shot Tyree Walker, 35, as he walked home back in 2018. He also shot and paralyzed a 23-year-old man, prosecutors said.

“[The] lengthy sentences must send a message to those engaged in gun violence that it will not be tolerated in Brooklyn. Senseless gang rivalries perpetrated by these defendants left six people injured and three people dead," Gonzalez said. “Little Davell never got to celebrate his second birthday. My heart breaks for his mother and father and all the families and victims affected by such devastating gun violence. I commend my prosecutors and the NYPD for their determination to bring these defendants to justice.”

Jayquan Lane, a fourth defendant, will be sentenced on June 18.