In a heartbreaking incident that has left a Brooklyn community grieving, 15-year-old Malachi DeBerry was tragically shot and killed late on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the Whitman Houses in Fort Greene. As police work tirelessly to uncover the details of the young teen’s untimely death, Malachi’s family, friends, and the community are struggling to come to terms with the tragedy that has brought the harsh realities of violence far too close to home.
The incident occurred just before midnight, at approximately 11:44 p.m., at 32 Auburn Place in Brooklyn’s Fort Greene neighborhood. The housing complex, known as the Whitman Houses, was the scene of the fatal shooting. Officers from the New York Police Department’s 88th Precinct and PSA 3 responded promptly to a 911 call reporting a shooting, but despite their swift arrival and the efforts of emergency medical responders, Malachi succumbed to his injuries shortly after reaching NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital.
The Tragic Evening of October 26
The evening had started out unremarkably for residents of Whitman Houses, a public housing complex in Brooklyn that houses hundreds of families. As night fell, some residents were returning home after a busy day, while others gathered in the area to socialize. However, at 11:44 p.m., the tranquility was shattered when gunfire echoed through the complex.
In the moments following the shooting, bystanders who witnessed the scene were stunned and horrified. Some residents described hearing shouts and seeing people running, while others remained in disbelief at the sight of police officers and emergency medical personnel arriving swiftly at the scene. Witnesses recounted seeing Malachi lying on the ground as paramedics worked tirelessly to save his life.
Who Was Malachi DeBerry?
Malachi DeBerry was known in his community as a bright, fun-loving teenager who had his entire life ahead of him. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Malachi was a student at a local high school where he was described by friends and teachers as someone who possessed both a gentle demeanor and a contagious smile. He was a young man of ambition, who dreamed of finishing high school, attending college, and perhaps one day making a difference in his community. Malachi’s friends recall him as someone who brought joy to those around him, often playing basketball at the local courts and spending time with family members who adored him.
One friend, Jeremiah Williams, shared his thoughts on social media: “Malachi was more than just a friend—he was like a brother to me. We grew up together, spent summers playing basketball, and dreamed of getting out of the neighborhood and making something of ourselves. I can’t believe he’s gone. I just wish I could have done something to prevent this.”
Family members expressed the unimaginable pain they are now facing. Malachi’s mother, Linda DeBerry, spoke tearfully of her son: “Malachi was my heart, my soul. He was a respectful, loving boy who never deserved this. My son had dreams. He had his whole life ahead of him, and in an instant, that was taken from him. I can’t even put into words the sorrow I feel.”
Investigation Intensifies, Police Seek Public’s Help
As of Sunday evening, the NYPD has yet to make an arrest in connection with Malachi’s death. Detectives from the 88th Precinct and PSA 3 have been canvassing the area, speaking with residents and reviewing surveillance footage to gain any leads that might aid the investigation. At present, police are uncertain if Malachi was the intended target or if this was a random act of violence. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and investigators are urging anyone who may have been in the area or who has any knowledge of the events leading up to the incident to come forward.
In an effort to bring justice for Malachi and closure for his family, the NYPD has issued an urgent appeal to the public. They have requested that anyone with information about the shooting reach out through various channels, including the Crime Stoppers hotline at 800-577-TIPS (or 888-57-PISTA for Spanish-speaking callers). Tips can also be submitted online via crimestoppers.nypdonline.org or on social media platform X, where the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers handle, @NYPDTips, remains active. All tips will be handled with strict confidentiality, as police work to uncover any leads in the case.
Community’s Outpouring of Grief and Demands for Justice
In the days following the shooting, the community has gathered to mourn Malachi’s death and demand action to curb the violence that has plagued their neighborhood. At a makeshift memorial set up near the scene of the shooting, family members, friends, and community leaders have placed flowers, candles, and photos in remembrance of Malachi. Residents have also organized a candlelight vigil, scheduled for later this week, to honor Malachi’s life and bring attention to the ongoing need for safer neighborhoods in Brooklyn.
Local leaders have voiced their concern and frustration over the violence that continues to affect young lives. City Councilmember Robert Cornegy, who represents the district, issued a statement condemning the violence and calling for increased measures to ensure safety in public housing communities like Whitman Houses. “Our communities deserve peace,” Cornegy stated. “No parent should have to endure the loss of their child to violence. It’s time we stand together to make sure no family has to go through this nightmare again.”
Rev. Al Sharpton, who has been a vocal advocate for justice in New York City, also expressed his condolences to Malachi’s family and emphasized the need for justice: “The violence claiming the lives of our youth has to end. We cannot stand idly by while our children are being gunned down in their own neighborhoods. We will stand with the DeBerry family and the Fort Greene community to demand answers and justice.”
A Broader Crisis: Violence in Public Housing Communities
Malachi’s death has reignited conversations about the persistent issue of violence within public housing communities across New York City. Whitman Houses, like many other housing complexes, has faced security concerns, with residents frequently reporting instances of crime and violence. Community leaders have long advocated for improved security measures, such as increased lighting, surveillance cameras, and a more visible police presence, to help deter criminal activity.
Advocates and residents alike argue that the violence in these neighborhoods cannot be addressed through policing alone. They are calling for more community programs, youth engagement initiatives, and mental health resources to help tackle the root causes of violence. Experts believe that investment in community resources, education, and job opportunities would provide young people like Malachi with a pathway to a brighter future, helping them avoid the cycle of violence that has impacted so many communities.
The devastating loss of Malachi DeBerry has once again underscored the urgency of addressing these long-standing issues. Many residents are urging city officials to prioritize safety improvements in housing projects and fund programs that can offer youth mentorship, education, and positive outlets for personal growth.
Calls for Policy Reform and Long-Term Solutions
In the wake of Malachi’s death, there has been renewed pressure on city leaders to implement changes aimed at reducing youth violence in urban communities. Lawmakers are considering legislation that would increase funding for after-school programs, community centers, and job training initiatives within public housing communities. Additionally, proposals for increased security funding at housing projects are being discussed, with residents advocating for improved infrastructure that could deter criminal activity.
Mayor Eric Adams has addressed the tragedy, stating, “The loss of a young life is always a tragedy, and my heart goes out to Malachi DeBerry’s family. We are committed to creating safer communities for all New Yorkers, and that includes addressing the systemic issues that lead to violence. We must come together to ensure that our public housing communities are places of safety and opportunity for everyone.”
A Community United in Grief and Determined for Change
As the investigation continues, the Whitman Houses community and greater Brooklyn neighborhood are left mourning the senseless loss of one of their own. The candlelight vigil planned for later this week will serve as both a moment of remembrance for Malachi and a call for justice, as residents and leaders alike strive to ensure that his death was not in vain. Those closest to Malachi are determined to see positive change emerge from this tragedy, hoping that his memory will serve as a catalyst for renewed efforts to make their neighborhoods safer.
In the words of his grieving mother, Linda DeBerry, “I just want justice for my son. No mother should have to bury her child. We need to make sure our communities are safe so that no other family has to go through this pain.”
As Brooklyn continues to mourn Malachi DeBerry, his life and legacy now carry a weight that extends far beyond his years. The community’s hope is that his memory will be a reminder of the work yet to be done, the lives still to be saved, and the collective resolve needed to create a safer future for the next generation.
