Syracuse police said detectives used interviews, search warrants and evidence analysis before making arrests.
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — A 13-day homicide investigation into the death of 68-year-old Dwayne Frazier led police to arrest two teenagers at the James Geddes Housing complex, authorities said.
The arrests closed one phase of a case that began April 15, when officers responded to gunfire on Palmer Avenue and found Frazier badly wounded. Police said the investigation remains open, with detectives still reviewing evidence and looking for more information.
Frazier was found in the 300 block of Palmer Avenue with an apparent gunshot wound. He was taken to Upstate University Hospital, where police said hospital staff tried to save him. Frazier later died from his injuries. The shooting scene was blocked off while officers marked and collected evidence, including shell casings found in the area.
Syracuse police said homicide detectives then began a wide investigation that included numerous interviews, a neighborhood and citywide canvass, several search warrants and evidence recovery. Police said that work led them to Ayden Daily, 18, and a 16-year-old boy. The younger suspect has not been publicly identified because of his age.
Officers saw both teens April 27 at the James Geddes Housing complex, police said. The 16-year-old was arrested without incident. Daily ran from officers and was caught after a short chase, according to police. Authorities said Daily had a loaded handgun when he was taken into custody.
Both teens were charged with second-degree murder and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. Daily was also charged with another count of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. Police said the 16-year-old was lodged at Hillbrook Juvenile Detention Center and Daily was lodged at the Onondaga County Justice Center.
Police have not released the full account of what they believe happened before the shooting. They also have not said whether Frazier was targeted, whether the teens knew him or whether any other suspects are being sought. Those questions are expected to shape the next stage of the case as prosecutors review the evidence gathered by detectives.
The case now moves from the street investigation into court proceedings, while Syracuse police continue to ask for information connected to the Palmer Avenue shooting. No trial dates or hearing schedules had been announced in the public reports reviewed Thursday.
Author note: Last updated April 30, 2026.