The Syracuse Police Department is reporting that at least 13 people were shot, stabbed, or hit by a vehicle in the aftermath of a large block party that erupted into chaos early Sunday morning.
The incident occurred on the 100 block of Davis Street near Massena Street and was reported to police just before 12:30 am.
Chief Joe Cecile stated that officers on patrol nearby heard gunshots being fired and the city’s ShotSpotter detection system was activated.
When asked how hundreds were able to gather in city streets without a permit, Chief Cecile said these “pop-up parties” are happening more frequently.
“These are happening, just so you know, every weekend at various parts of the city,” the chief explained. “Pop-up parties are typically advertised over social media. Sometimes we find out about them. Sometimes we don’t and they collect in the streets.”
Chief Cecile says the department’s early investigation indicates the reason for the large party was due to recent high school graduations. As we head into graduation season and especially the warmer months, the chief warned we can only expect more parties similar to this one.
When they arrived, an estimated 200 people had gathered in the street for what law enforcement has labeled as a “pop-up” party. All victims range between 17 to 25 years old and have been taken to area hospitals for treatment.
Richard Webb Sr., a neighbor who lived close to where this chaotic event took place, described his experience with emotion stating he not only heard but saw bullets shot through his home.
He said four of them ricocheted inside a bedroom located on the second floor which belonged to his grandson. In response to how hundreds of people were able to gather without permission from authorities, Chief Cecile explained similar events are taking place every weekend across different parts of the city and are usually advertised on social media platforms.
He believes these types of occurrences will become more frequent with summer months arriving and high school graduation ceremonies being held soon after.
9-year-old Aniyah Smith watched everything unfold from her family’s second-floor window and told NewsChannel 9’s Adrienne Smith that it was her first time seeing something like this take place in her life.
Fortunately, according to Syracuse Police all victims are expected to survive although severity levels are still unknown at this time.
SHOOTING VICTIMS:
- 20-year-old female, gunshot wound to the right hip.
- 22-year-old female, gunshot wound to the abdomen
- 17-year-old female, gunshot wound to the hip and midsection
- 20-year-old male, gunshot wound to the forearm
STABBING VICTIMS:
- 23-year-old female, laceration to the hand
- 19-year-old female, laceration to the head
- 25-year-old female, multiple lacerations to the shoulder and midsection
- 17-year-old female, laceration to the leg and arm
- 17-year-old male, laceration to the hand
VICTIMS HIT BY VEHCILE(S):
- 24-year-old female, lacerations to both legs after being struck by a vehicle
- 23-year-old female, abrasions to the side after being struck by a vehicle and hitting the ground
- 22-year-old male, abrasions to the side and foot after being struck by a vehicle and hitting the ground
- 22-year-old female, abrasions to the midsection after being struck by a vehicle and hitting the ground
Police are reviewing surveillance footage as part of the ongoing investigation.
Anyone with information is urged to call the Syracuse Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at (315) 442-5222. Tips can remain anonymous.
