Queens, NY — A tragic incident unfolded in Queens on Monday when a man was fatally shot by what police suspect was a stray bullet, causing him to lose control of his vehicle and strike a pedestrian. The motorist was later pronounced dead at a local hospital, while the pedestrian sustained injuries.
The victim, identified as William Alcindor, 66, was navigating his 2014 gray Nissan SUV in St. Albans at around 4:50 p.m. when a bullet struck him in the head. Law enforcement sources believe the shot was not intended for Alcindor but was rather meant for another target. The incident led to Alcindor’s vehicle veering off its path and hitting a 23-year-old woman.
Alcindor, a resident of Cambria Heights located approximately two miles from the site of the shooting, was rushed to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries. The woman involved in the accident was transported to the same hospital suffering from leg injuries and is reported to be in stable condition.
Police have released a photograph of the suspected shooter, described as a young male with black hair and a slim build, who was seen wearing a black shirt, black pants, white sneakers, and a black surgical mask at the time of the incident. Investigators believe he was accompanied by at least two other individuals. They continue to scrutinize video footage to identify all those involved. As of Tuesday morning, no arrests had been made.
Authorities have yet to determine a clear motive for the shooting and are still working to establish who the intended target was. The description of the suspect suggests he might be between 15 and 18 years old.
The NYPD is appealing to the public for any information related to the suspect and urges anyone who can help to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline. Tips can also be submitted online or via social media.
This case brings to light the alarming issue of gun violence affecting bystanders, underlining the pervasive danger that such incidents pose to public safety. The community now mourns the loss of Alcindor, remembered by neighbors as a gentle and kind individual, and hopes for a swift resolution to bring those responsible to justice.