Gunman sentenced for 2022 fatal shooting of 11-year-old girl.

A New York judge has handed down a significant sentence in a high-profile case of gun violence involving a young victim, marking a tragic chapter in the ongoing struggle against street violence in the city. On April 23, 2025, Bronx Supreme Court Judge Joseph A. McCormack sentenced Matthew Godwin, now 18, to 10 years to life in prison for the fatal shooting of 11-year-old Kyhara Tay, which occurred in May 2022.

Kyhara was standing outside a nail salon at the intersection of Fox Street and Westchester Avenue in Longwood when Godwin, then 15 years old, fired multiple rounds at a rival gang member from the back of a scooter. One of the stray bullets struck Kyhara in the abdomen, fatally wounding her. Despite immediate medical attention, she succumbed to her injuries that same day.

The incident, which resulted from growing tensions between rival gangs, underscored the tragic consequences of youth violence in urban areas. In his plea for leniency, Godwin expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging the irreversible harm caused not only to Kyhara’s family but to the broader community as well. The judge pointedly criticized Godwin’s reckless actions, describing the shooting as a random act that instilled fear within the local community.

Judge McCormack emphasized the ramifications of the shooting, stating that Godwin’s actions went beyond the death of an innocent child—they impacted the sense of safety for all Bronx residents, highlighting the profound societal implications of such violent crimes. He implored the defendant to use his time in prison to reflect on his choices and work towards making positive changes in his life.

Additionally, the scooter’s driver at the time of the incident, Omar Bojang, faced similar charges. His sentencing has been postponed pending further evaluations, but he is expected to receive a substantial prison term for his role in this tragic event. Both Godwin and Bojang were reported as having previously been victims of gun violence themselves, which adds a layer of complexity to an already heart-wrenching narrative.

Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark described the sentencing as a critical step toward justice for Kyhara Tay, whose life was cut short by an act of senseless violence. The Tay family plans to continue their advocacy against gun violence, ensuring that Kyhara’s memory serves as a catalyst for change. In a poignant reflection, Kyhara’s mother articulated the enduring pain of losing a child to violence, while expressing hope that the penalties levied against Godwin and Bojang will help prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedies.

As communities across New York grapple with the continuing challenges of gun violence, this case underscores the urgent need for effective solutions to address the root causes of such crime and protect the most vulnerable members of society.