Queens Teen Shot Dead at Park After Basketball Court Argument; NYPD Searches for Gunman
A 15-year-old boy was fatally shot at Roy Wilkins Park following a basketball court dispute. Police are searching for the suspect as the community demands justice.
A tragic act of gun violence has shaken the community in Queens after a 15-year-old boy was shot and killed following an argument at a park basketball court.
According to authorities, the incident occurred around 6:15 p.m. on April 16 at Roy Wilkins Park in the St. Albans neighborhood. Officers responding to the scene discovered Jaden Pierre, 15, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest near the park’s Nautilus Playground basketball courts.
Police say the violence erupted after a dispute among several teens escalated into a physical fight. During the altercation, Pierre was reportedly beaten before one individual pulled out a firearm and opened fire, striking the teenager in broad daylight as other park-goers, including children, were nearby.
Emergency responders rushed Pierre to Jamaica Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The New York Police Department has described the shooting as a “horrific act of violence” and confirmed that detectives are actively searching for the suspect, who was last seen wearing gray clothing and white sneakers. No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Community leaders, including violence prevention advocates, have voiced outrage and concern over the growing presence of firearms among youth. The incident has intensified calls for stronger intervention and safety measures to prevent further tragedies.
This fatal shooting comes amid heightened concerns over gun violence in the area, following the recent death of an infant in a separate stray-bullet incident earlier this month.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers as they continue their search for the suspect and seek justice for the victim.