16-Year-Old Bronx Teen Fatally Shot Late Sunday Night in Crown Heights
CROWN HEIGHTS, BROOKLYN —
What began as an ordinary Sunday evening in Brooklyn ended in heartbreak as a 16-year-old boy from The Bronx was fatally shot in the Crown Heights neighborhood late Sunday night, according to the New York City Police Department (NYPD). The shooting has left family members, classmates, and community members grieving the loss of a young life cut short by senseless violence.
Authorities identified the victim on Monday morning as 16-year-old Jayden Rivera, a resident of the South Bronx and a student at Mott Haven Community High School. Police say the shooting occurred around 11:45 p.m. near the intersection of Rochester Avenue and Sterling Place, a mostly residential area known for its mix of row houses, small businesses, and late-night foot traffic.
When officers from the 77th Precinct arrived on the scene following multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire, they discovered Rivera lying on the sidewalk with gunshot wounds to his chest and shoulder. Paramedics with the FDNY immediately administered aid and rushed him to Kings County Hospital Center, where he was later pronounced deceased.
According to early findings, Jayden Rivera had reportedly been visiting friends in Crown Heights earlier that evening. Witnesses told investigators that moments before the shooting, a small group of teens appeared to be arguing near the corner. Surveillance footage obtained from a nearby bodega reportedly shows a dark-colored sedan slowing down before multiple shots were fired. Police are now working to confirm whether the shooter was in the vehicle or on foot.
Investigators have not released any information about a possible motive, though early leads suggest the shooting may have been the result of a dispute involving neighborhood teens. The NYPD’s Gun Violence Suppression Division and Brooklyn North Homicide Squad are assisting in the case, reviewing camera footage and interviewing potential witnesses.
Community members and Rivera’s family are devastated by the loss. His mother, Maria Rivera, spoke tearfully outside their Bronx apartment on Monday:
“He wasn’t perfect, but he was a good kid. He loved basketball, loved his family, and had dreams of going to college. He was supposed to come home that night. He never made it.”
Friends described Jayden as a bright, outgoing teenager who loved music and spent much of his free time at local parks playing basketball. His classmates at Mott Haven Community High School organized a memorial vigil, placing candles and handwritten messages near the school entrance.
One of Jayden’s teachers, Mr. Anthony Delgado, remembered him as “a quiet leader” who often helped other students stay focused.
“He had this big heart,” Delgado said. “He’d joke around in class, but when it came time to work, he was all in. Losing him like this — it hurts us all.”
Police officials have increased patrols in the Crown Heights area as the investigation continues. Deputy Inspector Marlon Lott, commanding officer of the 77th Precinct, urged residents to come forward with any information.
“Someone out there knows something,” Lott said. “We need the community’s help to bring justice for this young man and his family.”
As of Monday afternoon, no arrests have been made, and authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).
The tragic death of Jayden Rivera adds to a growing number of youth gun violence cases across New York City in recent months. Officials have reiterated calls for investment in community programs, youth mentorship, and stricter enforcement against illegal firearms.
At a makeshift memorial on Rochester Avenue, candles flickered beneath a poster bearing Jayden’s photo — a smiling face surrounded by messages like “Fly high, Jayden” and “You’ll never be forgotten.”
For now, a Bronx family grieves a son whose life was just beginning — and a Brooklyn community faces yet another painful reminder of how quickly gun violence can shatter lives.
