On Sunday evening, July 28, 2024, a violent shooting erupted in Maplewood Park in Rochester, New York, resulting in the death of two women and injuries to five others, as reported by local law enforcement. The shooting happened around 6:20 p.m., at a time when the park was bustling with hundreds of individuals involved in barbecuing activities and relishing the summer weather as part of an event promoted through flyers.

According to the Rochester police, the two casualties were identified as Tyasia Manning, a 25-year-old city employee who died at the scene, and Phylicia Council, aged 34. Council was critically injured during the shooting and succumbed to her injuries later. The five others who were injured sustained minor wounds and were treated at nearby medical facilities.

Panic ensued when the gunfire broke out amongst the crowd, causing people to scatter in fear. A video that allegedly recorded the incident was shared on social media, showing the ensuing commotion as attendees ran for safety amidst multiple gunshots.

Several law enforcement agencies including Rochester police, Irondequoit Police, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, and New York State Police responded to the incident. Police Captain Greg Bello informed the press that the exact number of shooters involved in the shooting is yet to be determined.

Rochester Police Chief David Smith later confirmed that the police are looking for more than one suspect in connection with the shooting.

Maplewood Park, which is well-known for its picturesque scenery and as a popular hangout spot, turned into a major crime scene as police began their investigation late Sunday. Law enforcement officials were observed scanning the area for ballistic evidence. Authorities have requested anyone with information or video footage of the incident to step forward. “Somebody that pulled out a gun, obviously that’s incredibly unacceptable in our society,” Bello stated.

The Maplewood Park shooting is part of a recent uptick in violent incidents in Rochester. On the same day, another man in his 30s lost his life in an early morning shooting incident. In a separate episode on Friday night, 38-year-old Christopher Austin was fatally stabbed. In connection with Austin’s murder, Herbert Montgomery, 45, has been charged with second-degree murder while Sara Lee McFadden, 42, is facing charges of tampering with evidence and hindering prosecution.

“To the folks who did this, I will be seeing you,” Chief Smith pledged, issuing a stern warning to the culprits of the park shooting.

Mayor Malik Evans called upon the public to assist in the ongoing investigation. “We need the community’s help to bring those responsible to justice,” Evans stated. “If you know something, say something. We must work together to ensure our parks and our city remain safe.”

Rochester, located approximately 340 miles northwest of New York City, has been put on high alert due to the recent wave of violent incidents. Law enforcement agencies have intensified their efforts to stem the tide of violence and ensure the safety of the public. The active investigation at Maplewood Park highlights the urgent need for public cooperation in gathering information to help identify and capture the culprits.