Bridgeport police confirmed that a 34‑year‑old man is in critical condition after being shot outside a birthday party on Benham Avenue Saturday night. The victim was standing among a crowd that included children when a vehicle drove by and gunfire erupted.
Police response and investigation
Shortly after 9:00 p.m., the Bridgeport Police Department’s ShotSpotter acoustic detection system registered 20 gunshots in the Benham Avenue area. Dispatchers received multiple 911 calls reporting that a person had been shot in front of a house.
Officers arrived on scene within minutes and found the victim with a gunshot wound to the back of his shoulder. Emergency medical personnel transported him to a local hospital, where he remains listed in critical condition.
The street was closed to traffic until approximately 11:30 p.m. while investigators from the department’s Non‑Fatal Shooting Task Force processed the scene, collected evidence, and interviewed witnesses.
Community impact
Neighbors expressed shock that gunfire occurred at a family gathering, especially with children present. “We were just trying to celebrate a birthday and hear gunshots is something no one should have to experience,” one resident said.
Bridgeport officials have reiterated their commitment to public safety and urged anyone with information to contact Detective Albert Palatiello at (203) 581‑5226. The department emphasized that the ShotSpotter system continues to be a valuable tool for quickly detecting and responding to gunfire incidents.
Background on ShotSpotter
ShotSpotter is an acoustic surveillance technology that alerts law‑enforcement agencies to gunfire in real time, allowing for faster response and potentially saving lives. Bridgeport has employed the system citywide since 2022 as part of its broader strategy to reduce gun violence.
While the investigation remains ongoing, police have not released details about a suspect or motive. The department will provide updates as the case develops.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.
