Father of four fatally stabbed while visiting Brooklyn NYCHA complex from his childhood.

A Brooklyn man was fatally stabbed last week outside the New York City Housing Authority’s Langston Hughes Houses, a complex in which he spent his childhood. Kevin Coleman, a 48-year-old father of four, had returned to the Brownsville neighborhood to socialize with friends when the attack occurred around 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday. As of now, law enforcement has not made any arrests in connection with this incident.

Coleman’s ex-girlfriend, Saywon Ware, 44, expressed her heartbreak over the incident, highlighting that despite their breakup about a month prior, his affection for her and their children remained steadfast. Ware attested to Coleman’s character, stating that he was devoted to his family and went to great lengths to support them.

Upon arrival at the crime scene, police found Coleman lying faceup in a pool of blood beneath scaffolding near the main entrance of one of the buildings in the housing complex, with a knife positioned nearby. Though he was conscious and able to speak, Coleman did not disclose to officers who had attacked him, a decision outlined by Ware as indicative of his “jail mentality.” Coleman, known by the nickname “Five,” had a criminal history that included a conviction for assault, leading to a prison sentence of up to 6.5 years; he had been released on parole in March 2024.

Medical personnel transported Coleman to Brookdale University Hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. Ware recalled arriving at the hospital, where she was informed that Coleman had been alert and communicating with doctors, but she was unable to see him.

Coleman was residing with relatives in Far Rockaway, Queens, at the time of his death. His connection to the Langston Hughes Houses was strong, as he regularly visited the site of his youth. He is survived by his 20-year-old daughter, a 17-year-old son, a 15-year-old daughter, and an 8-year-old daughter, all of whom have expressed their love and admiration for him.

The 73rd Precinct, covering the area that includes the Langston Hughes Houses, has reported a significant decline in homicide rates this year, with only four cases reported through mid-November compared to 19 in the same period last year, reflecting a 79% decrease. Homicide rates across New York City are also at historically low levels; with 275 murders this year compared to 346 during the same timeframe last year, marking a 21% drop overall.

As the community grapples with this tragic loss, questions remain regarding the circumstances surrounding the attack and the safety of residents in neighborhoods affected by violence.

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