Location: Harlem, New York

Excenia Mette, a 61-year-old grandmother, lost her life tragically after being caught in the crossfire of a shootout on Malcolm X Boulevard. The local community is collectively mourning the loss of Mette, who was not the intended target of the violence.

Incident Overview

The fatal shooting occurred late Tuesday night at approximately 10:20 PM. Reports indicate that two groups exchanged gunfire, with Mette struck by a stray bullet while she was standing on the sidewalk near her home.

Following the incident, Mette was transported to Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital where she was later pronounced dead from her injuries. Authorities emphasize that she was an innocent bystander during the violent confrontation.

Arrests and Charges

In connection with the shooting, Ricky Shelby, a 23-year-old resident of the Bronx, has been charged with second-degree murder among other offenses. Another suspect, Darious Smith, also aged 23, was apprehended on charges of attempted murder.

Community Reaction

The community’s grief was palpable during a vigil held in honor of Mette. Friends and family described her as a vital part of the neighborhood, revered for her kindness and dedication.

Mayor Eric Adams condemned the shooting at a recent press conference, attributing the high incidence of gun violence to repeat offenders. He expressed the city’s condolences and the broader implications of such tragedies.

“No one expects coming from a store, beauty salon, or visiting a loved one to have notification that they lost a loved one due to this senseless violence,” said Adams. “But again, the action of repeated offenders—just last year stabbing two people, doing a robbery—is now involved in a shooting that took the life of a working-class person here in the city.”