The third arrest was made on January 26th Community Expressing Outrage at a multiple shooting that took the life of an 11-year-old girl and wounded a 19-year-old young man. (Syracuse Police Chief Joe Cecile)
On January 16, 2023, around 7:42 p.m., Syracuse Police Officers responded to the 400 block of Oakwood Avenue in regards to a shooting with injuries call. Upon arriving, Officers located one victim, 11-year-old Brexialee Torres-Ortiz. It was evident that she had been shot. Police officers and emergency personnel immediately performed first aid at the scene before she was transported to Upstate Hospital. Extensive resuscitative efforts were made at the hospital. Tragically, after some time, Brexialee passed away as a result of her injuries. A second gunshot victim, Isael Cruz, 19, later arrived at Upstate via private vehicle. Cruz was treated for his injuries and released.
The people of Syracuse were horrified by the brazen act of violence that injured one and took the life of a child. This has sparked many discussions within the African American community about the absolute disregard for life that some have.
A Community Speaks Out in Anger
Not only did this crime shock this community, but an array of opinions has been expressed by Faith Leaders and stakeholders who are on the front lines within their scope of work. Bishop H. Bernard Alex responded to this shooting by simply stating, “ I Am Tired “in an opinion piece that simply states, “We can no longer abdicate the responsibility of raising our children to others. We have a legacy and a responsibility to ensure the grounding of a good moral compass that provides guidance daily to our children”. He continues, “We must rise up and take responsibility and action. The outcry of guns within the urban communities and the danger. We still have the gift of CHOICE. You don’t have to participate and allow the danger of weapons to move in and out of your home.”
This sentiment has been repeated on social media and in those kitchen table conversations. Director of the Mary Nelson Youth Center, Mary Nelson also spoke out in response to the violence we’re seeing far too often on our streets.
Ms. Nelson penned a letter entitled Dear Shooter, where she’s addressing those involved in this shooting that’s shaken a community, “I am writing this post to you and your family and friends. I know you are sleeping. You did overtime and time and a half the last few days. It is so very sad you feel like you have the right to cause pain to others. I know you really do not have a conscience, but we as a community need you to think this may be your family grieving you. You know guns have no intended target, and when you use them the way you have been, it has really hurt people we all love. Why do we now have to be afraid to go out in broad daylight? Maybe we need to run an errand at night but be in fear because you feel it’s your time to begin your senseless nonsense again.
As a community, we need you to put your gun down. Only a punk will pick up a weapon because you are scared to use your hands because you cannot fight. You may not be reading this post, but if your family and friends are, they are just as guilty as you.“
An investigation was commenced by CID Homicide Unit detectives where numerous people were interviewed, and an extensive neighborhood and citywide canvass was conducted. In addition, several search warrants were executed, and evidence recovered was processed and thoroughly analyzed.
As a result of efforts by the Syracuse Police, on January 16th, several suspects were identified as the perpetrators of this crime. Two of these suspects are Ra’sean Patterson, 18, and Dahviere Griswold, 20.
Griswold was located at 2005 East Fayette Street, where he was taken into custody by SPD Homicide Unit detectives without incident. Patterson was taken into custody by Detectives at the Public Safety Building. Both were subsequently lodged in the Onondaga County Justice Center.
Regarding this investigation, Ra’sean Patterson and Dahviere Griswold were each charged with the following crimes:
- One count of Murder in the Second Degree,
- One count of Attempted Murder in the Second Degree,
- One count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree.
Third Suspect Arrested
On January 26th, 2023, a third suspect in this incident was taken into custody in Lincolndale NY with the assistance of the NY State Police out of SP Somers. The suspect was turned over to SPD Homicide Unit Detectives in Lincolndale and transported back to Syracuse NY.
This suspect is a 16-year-old adolescent offender. He was charged with one count of Murder in the Second Degree, one count of Attempted Murder in the Second Degree, and one count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree. The investigation is continuing.
Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact Syracuse Police at (315) 442-5222.
*Incident details provided by the Syracuse Police Department
