A peaceful Sunday afternoon barbecue in Rochester, New York, turned tragic when gunfire erupted at Maplewood Park, leaving two women dead and five others injured. The incident, which occurred around 6:20 p.m., has shocked the community and prompted a multi-agency investigation.
Police Chief David Smith reported that hundreds of people were gathered at the park when “rounds were fired from multiple weapons, striking the victims.” The deceased have been identified as Tyasia Manning, 25, a city employee, and Phylicia Council, 34, who succumbed to her injuries later.
Eyewitness Shelly Strong recounted the chaotic scene: “I looked up and I hear somebody yell. He’s got a gun! Run!” The shooting sparked an immediate response from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Irondequoit Police, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Rochester Police, and New York State Police.
Mayor Malik Evans expressed his frustration and sorrow, stating, “Our people, our residents should be able to enjoy the summer in a park. Period. But all too often we have individuals in this community that are unmitigated cowards, that are OK with shooting women.” He described the aftermath, noting the jarring sight of a stroller and people’s shoes left behind at the scene.
The gathering had been advertised with flyers, though organizers were not required to obtain a city permit in advance. Police Chief Smith has urged the public to come forward with any information or video footage that could aid in the investigation. “There were hundreds of people at this barbecue, and therefore there are hundreds of people who have potential information to help us solve this crime,” he emphasized.
As of Monday, no suspects were in custody, and police were still working to determine how many individuals fired weapons during the incident. Capt. Greg Bello stated, “We are trying to work our way through as many witnesses as we can.”
This tragic event marks the second mass shooting at a Rochester park in as many months. In June, six people were wounded in an overnight shooting at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park, occurring during an unauthorized gathering when the park was closed.
The recurring violence has raised serious concerns about community safety and gun control in the area. As Rochester, located about 340 miles northwest of Manhattan, grapples with this latest tragedy, residents and officials alike are calling for action to prevent future incidents and ensure public spaces remain safe for all.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of life and rallies to support the victims and their families. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Rochester Police Department immediately.
