Queens, NY – A tragic incident occurred this past Monday afternoon in Queens when a 66-year-old man was fatally shot during a reported gang altercation. The victim, identified as William Alcindor, a resident of Cambria Heights, was driving near a local fast food restaurant when he was struck by gunfire.
Authorities have charged a 15-year-old boy with second-degree murder and illegal possession of a firearm in connection with Alcindor’s death. The young defendant, whose identity is protected due to his age, appeared in Queens Criminal Court where he was ordered held without bail.
The accused teenager is alleged to have engaged in a violent dispute with another youth, leading to the fatal shooting. It occurred near a busy intersection in St. Albans, striking Alcindor and causing him to lose control of his vehicle, which subsequently hit a pedestrian.
The 23-year-old pedestrian suffered leg injuries and was taken to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. She is reported to be in stable condition. Alcindor, however, succumbed to his injuries shortly after being transported to the same hospital.
District Attorney Melinda Katz expressed her condolences to the families of both the deceased and the injured, highlighting the devastating impact of gun violence. “This senseless act of violence has not only taken the life of a father but has also grievously injured an innocent bystander,” Katz stated.
Following the shooting, investigators recovered multiple shell casings at the scene, indicating the severity of the altercation. The police response to the incident was swift, with officers arriving promptly after reports of gunfire.
As the legal proceedings against the young suspect commence, the community has been left reeling from the impact of this violent act. Residents and local leaders are calling for renewed efforts to tackle gang violence and improve safety in the neighborhood.
The case has brought renewed attention to issues of juvenile crime and the use of firearms by young people. If convicted, the teenager faces a significant prison sentence, highlighting the grave consequences of such actions.
Local community groups have since advocated for increased policing and community-based interventions to prevent such tragedies in the future. The loss of Alcindor has prompted a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges facing communities in Queens and the urgent need for effective solutions to curb youth involvement in gang activities.