A summer 2003 domestic attack on Ashton Street in northwest Detroit left three children dead and a fourth critically injured. Three-year-old Ayana Bailey was killed by a gunshot wound to the head; her 11-year-old sister Sharnice and one-year-old brother Lamar also died from gunshot wounds. Nine-year-old Antonia Bailey survived and was found conscious in the basement; she identified her father as the shooter. Responding firefighters discovered the children after arriving for a small house fire and called police when they saw gunshot wounds.

Authorities say Anthony Bailey contacted his estranged wife beforehand with the message Watch the news tonight. A 12-gauge shotgun is said to have been used, and a shotgun was later found leaning against the side of the house. Detroit police launched a large search and arrested Anthony Bailey the next day after he was spotted on an overpass; he was charged with three counts of first-degree felony murder, one count of assault with intent to murder, and arson. Reports tie the attack to ongoing domestic disputes and restraining orders.

Did anyone in the neighborhood know the family’s routines or recognize signs of escalating trouble before that summer night?