In the early hours of November 8, 2024, Utica, New York, was rocked by a series of violent incidents, leaving one young woman dead and two others critically injured. The shootings took place across three locations within the span of just a few hours, prompting a swift response from the Utica Police Department, which has launched an extensive investigation to determine any links between the attacks.
First Shooting: South Street
The first shooting was reported at approximately 12:30 a.m. when police and emergency units responded to an urgent call from a business located at 822 South Street. Witnesses reported a masked individual entered the establishment, approached the victim, and, without hesitation, fired a shot directly into the man’s abdomen before fleeing the scene. Police arrived shortly after the assailant’s escape, finding the man struggling with life-threatening injuries. Utica Fire Department (UFD) personnel acted quickly, transporting him to Wynn Hospital where he was rushed into emergency surgery. He remains in critical but stable condition, and his identity has not yet been released as his family is notified and police work to piece together his connections to the area and possible motives.
Witnesses near the scene of the first incident provided initial statements, describing the shooter as a tall, masked individual in dark clothing, though the exact identity remains unknown. Police have canvassed the area and are in the process of reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses to identify any clues that could lead to an arrest. The victim’s family and friends have gathered at the hospital, hopeful for his recovery.
Second Shooting: Faxton Street
As police continued their investigation into the South Street shooting, Utica’s ShotSpotter system—a technology that detects gunfire—alerted officers to another incident, this time on Faxton Street. The alert, received around 1:00 a.m., indicated multiple gunshots in the area, which triggered an immediate dispatch of officers to the scene.
Upon arrival, police encountered a scene of tragedy. A 19-year-old woman, identified as Key Amonie, and a male companion lay on the ground, each with severe injuries. Amonie had sustained gunshot wounds to her chest, while the male victim had been hit in the back. Emergency responders from the Utica Police and Fire Departments worked rapidly to stabilize both victims and transported them to Wynn Hospital. Tragically, despite the relentless efforts of the medical team, Key Amonie succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival. Her companion remains hospitalized in stable condition, though his road to recovery is uncertain, and he remains under close observation.
The death of Key Amonie has sent shockwaves through the community, with friends, family members, and neighbors mourning the loss of a young woman described as vibrant, kind-hearted, and full of promise. Social media posts have poured in, honoring her memory and expressing disbelief at the tragedy. “She was so full of life,” shared one friend on social media, “and always brought joy to those around her. This senseless act of violence has left a hole in our hearts that can never be filled.”
As detectives comb the scene on Faxton Street, they are interviewing witnesses who reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing individuals fleeing the area. Law enforcement officials are also working to understand if there is any connection between this incident and the earlier shooting on South Street. They continue to analyze ShotSpotter data and other forensic evidence collected at the scene.
Third Shooting: Howard Avenue
Just as police concluded their preliminary investigation on Faxton Street, another ShotSpotter alert rang out at approximately 3:30 a.m., this time pinpointing the 1500 block of Howard Avenue. This third incident involved gunfire aimed directly at a residence, raising even greater concerns about community safety. When officers arrived, they found several rounds had been fired into the home, which was occupied by multiple people, including several young children.
The homeowners, who were asleep at the time of the attack, were shaken by the discovery but miraculously escaped physical harm. The children and adults inside the house were unharmed, though deeply disturbed by the frightening wake-up call. Authorities are now working closely with the family to ensure their protection and are evaluating security measures to prevent further incidents.
The Utica Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division and Major Crimes Unit have now pooled resources to investigate these three incidents comprehensively. They are examining all evidence, from ballistics reports to witness statements, in search of a possible connection between the shootings. The police are also cooperating with neighborhood groups and community leaders to ensure residents feel safe and informed during this troubling time.
Community Response and Calls for Justice
The overnight shootings have led to an outpouring of grief and calls for change in Utica, where residents are grappling with the implications of such violence occurring in quick succession. Key Amonie’s death has hit the community especially hard, with locals gathering at her family’s home to offer support and plan a vigil in her honor. “We need to remember her as she was—kind, caring, and a light in our lives,” shared a family friend. “Her death can’t be in vain; we need to bring justice to her and make sure our community is safe.”
In light of these events, the Utica Police Department is urging any residents with information to come forward, emphasizing the need for community cooperation to bring the perpetrators to justice. Detective Sergeant Mark Williams, a spokesperson for the department, shared an impassioned plea to the public: “These acts of violence cannot be tolerated in Utica. We need everyone’s help to ensure our city remains a place of peace and safety. If you saw or heard anything, no matter how small, please contact us.”
Preventive Measures and Safety Initiatives
Following these incidents, city officials and the police department are exploring additional safety measures, including enhancing ShotSpotter coverage in high-risk neighborhoods and increasing patrols during nighttime hours. Police Chief Andrew Johnson has also announced plans for a community forum, inviting residents to discuss their concerns directly with law enforcement officials. The forum is part of a broader initiative to rebuild trust and ensure residents feel secure in their homes and neighborhoods.
In an effort to support residents in processing these traumatic events, the city is collaborating with local mental health services to offer counseling sessions and resources for those affected. A dedicated hotline has been set up for individuals seeking assistance, and grief counselors will be available at community centers throughout Utica.
The Mayor’s office released a statement expressing condolences to the families affected and reiterated the city’s commitment to public safety. “The events of November 8 are a stark reminder of the work we must continue to do to ensure every Utican feels safe and protected,” the statement read. “We stand with the families affected, and we will do everything in our power to prevent such tragedies from happening again.”
How to Assist in the Investigation
The police are asking anyone who may have information about the incidents to contact the Utica Police Department at (315) 223-3510. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Mohawk Valley Crime Stoppers at www.mohawkvalleycrimestoppers.com, by calling 1-866-730-8477 (TIPS), or by using the P3 Tips mobile app.
As the city of Utica continues to come to terms with these tragic events, residents remain hopeful that justice will be served and that those responsible will be held accountable. The community’s response has been one of resilience and solidarity, with neighbors vowing to stand together against violence and to support each other in times of need.
For now, the focus is on remembering Key Amonie, supporting the other victims in their recovery, and reinforcing the city’s commitment to a safer future for all.
