Brooklyn police responded to a 911 call shortly before 10 p.m. on Wednesday, reporting a shooting in front of 160 Havemeyer St. in the Williamsburg neighborhood. When officers arrived, they discovered an 18‑year‑old male with gunshot wounds to the face and torso.
Emergency medical services transported the victim to NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue, where he was pronounced dead. The New York City Police Department identified the young man as Jayden Velasquez, an 18‑year‑old resident of Brooklyn.
Investigation ongoing
No arrests have been made at this time. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and canvassing the area for additional information. The NYPD has asked anyone who saw or heard anything related to the incident to contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers hotline.
Crime Stoppers, a partnership between the police department and community volunteers, offers a $5,000 reward for tips that lead to an arrest. Calls can be made anonymously, and the hotline is available 24 hours a day.
Community response
Neighbors expressed shock and sadness over the loss of a local teenager. Residents of the Williamsburg area have long called for increased safety measures, including more street lighting and a stronger police presence in high‑traffic corridors.
Mayor Eric Adams’ office has reiterated its commitment to public safety across all five boroughs. In recent months, the administration has allocated additional resources to the NYPD, including extra patrol officers and a focus on violent‑crime hot spots.
Police resources and public safety
The NYPD’s precinct serving Williamsburg, the 71st Precinct, regularly holds community meetings to discuss safety concerns and to provide updates on ongoing investigations. Officers encourage community members to report suspicious activity promptly, emphasizing that early reporting can prevent tragedies.
City officials also continue to work with local organizations to provide youth programs aimed at reducing gun violence. Initiatives such as after‑school mentorship, job‑training workshops, and community sports leagues are part of a broader strategy to keep young people away from dangerous situations.
How to help
If you have any information about the shooting, please call NYPD Crime Stoppers at 1‑800‑577‑8212 or submit a tip online. Your cooperation can help bring justice for Jayden Velasquez and his family.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
