“Dad, Why Can’t I See?” — Father Shares Daughter’s Heartbreaking Question After 11-Year-Old Is Shot in the Head in Antioch

On Jan. 5, an 11-year-old girl was shot in the head while sitting in her family’s car in the parking lot of an apartment complex in Antioch, California. She was rushed to a pediatric hospital in Oakland. According to a GoFundMe created on the family’s behalf, the child "is able to hear loved ones and respond by moving parts of her body when spoken to, but she has lost 100% of her vision."

The victim’s father, who spoke anonymously to The Daily Mail for safety reasons, described the devastating moment his daughter began to lose her sight and asked him, "Dad, why can’t I see?" He said the words were unbearable and left him numb and fearful. "I feel like my heart is being ripped out," he said, adding that family "is everything" to him.

Antioch Police DepartmentRyan Hardy, suspect in a Jan. 5 shooting in Antioch, Calif

Family Impact And Response

The girl’s aunt, Anahi Ramirez, told The Daily Mail she remains in shock and is struggling to accept what happened. The family — including the girl’s three siblings — has relocated because they no longer feel safe returning to their Antioch home while the suspected shooter remains free. The GoFundMe says the child’s road to recovery is uncertain and will require extensive medical care, therapy and long-term emotional support.

Suspect And Investigation

Antioch police have identified 23-year-old Ryan Hardy as a suspect in the shooting. Authorities said they identified Hardy "through a combination of video surveillance, witness statements, and forensic evidence." Hardy remains at large; police have warned he should be considered armed and dangerous. Investigators have also indicated that the family does not appear to have been the intended target.

The Antioch Police Department said the investigation is ongoing and urged anyone with information to contact investigators. Local authorities and the family’s fundraiser are seeking community support as the girl undergoes extensive treatment and rehabilitation.

Note: Out of respect for the family’s privacy, the child’s name has not been released by authorities.