A violent incident unfolded in Rochester, New York’s Maplewood Park on the evening of July 28, 2024, where two women lost their lives and five others were injured as a result of a shooting, according to local law enforcement. The incident occurred around 6:20 pm, amidst hundreds of park visitors who were participating in an outdoor event that was advertised by leaflets.
According to the Rochester Police, Tyasia Manning, 25, a city employee, was fatally shot, and 34-year-old Phylicia Council later succumbed to her severe injuries. Five more individuals suffered minor injuries and were attended to at nearby health facilities.
The tranquil park setting quickly descended into chaos as shots rang out, sending attendees scrambling for safety. A video, allegedly recorded during the shooting and later circulated on social media platforms, depicted the disarray as multiple firearms were discharged.
Responding to the incident were several enforcement agencies, including the Rochester Police, Irondequoit Police, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, and New York State Police. Police Captain Greg Bello addressed the media, acknowledging that the total number of shooters remains unknown.
Rochester Police Chief David Smith later verified that the search for multiple suspects is underway.
Known for its picturesque landscapes and frequented gathering spots, Maplewood Park was the focus of a thorough police investigation that night. Investigators diligently searched the area for ballistic evidence while urging any witnesses with footage or information on the incident to assist in the investigation. “Anything on who decided to — on a Sunday afternoon where everybody’s out barbecuing, having a good time — decided to pull out a gun for whatever reason whether there’s a dispute going, short term, long term, whatever it was,” Bello remarked. “Somebody that pulled out a gun, obviously that’s incredibly unacceptable in our society.”
The Maplewood Park shooting is one among a sudden rise in violent incidents in Rochester. The same day saw a man in his 30s fatally shot early in the morning, and another incident on July 26 resulted in the stabbing death of Christopher Austin, 38. The police have arrested Herbert Montgomery, 45, charging him with second-degree murder, and Sara Lee McFadden, 42, on charges of tampering with evidence and obstructing the prosecution, in connection with Austin’s murder.
These violent occurrences have left the community in shock. Addressing the culprits of the park shooting, Chief Smith cautioned, “To the folks who did this, I will be seeing you.”
Mayor Malik Evans also sought public assistance in the investigation, stating, “We need the community’s help to bring those responsible to justice. If you know something, say something. We must work together to ensure our parks and our city remain safe.”
Rochester, situated approximately 340 miles northwest of New York City, has been on high alert following the recent series of violent incidents. This has led to law enforcement agencies intensifying their efforts to curtail the violence and maintain public safety. The ongoing investigation at Maplewood Park underlines the vital role of public information in identifying and apprehending the culprits.
