Man fatally shot in Queens one day after visiting favorite barbershop.
A recent shooting incident in Queens, New York, has left the community in shock following the tragic death of Dwayne Belfield, a 41-year-old man well-known for his warmth and vibrant personality. Belfield, affectionately nicknamed “Antz” by his friends, was a frequent patron of Exclusive Styles barber shop in East Flatbush, Brooklyn, where he had developed close relationships over many years.
According to barber Neil Gadsby, who has known Belfield since childhood, his nickname stemmed from his ability to appear unexpectedly, akin to the ubiquitous nature of ants. Friends described him as someone who would often check in on them, showcasing both his friendly demeanor and commitment to his community. Belfield’s appearance was characteristic of his style, opting for a low taper haircut that allowed him to maintain a polished look.
Tragically, Belfield was shot on Liverpool Street near Glassboro Avenue on Saturday morning shortly after 8:00 AM. Surveillance footage has emerged showing a dark-colored BMW slowing down at the intersection before shots were fired from the back seat. Belfield was struck in the chest and managed to move several feet before collapsing on the sidewalk. Emergency responders transported him to Jamaica Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward.
Belfield, a native of Guyana, earned his living doing bodywork on cars and was known for his musical talents as an accomplished drummer. Colleagues and friends remembered him as a person who exuded positive energy and engaged in uplifting conversations about life, sports, and relationships, steering clear of negativity. Gadsby characterized him as a strong and courageous individual, quick to defend both himself and his friends.
In a separate incident the following day, a 65-year-old woman was shot in the left buttocks in a nearby neighborhood, with the shooter also reportedly using a black BMW as a getaway vehicle. Witnesses recounted the frightening scene, stating that the incident occurred in broad daylight, and expressed their concern that police presence in the area was insufficient.
Authorities are investigating both shootings but have not made any arrests as of yet. These incidents occurred despite recent data indicating a substantial decline in violent crime in New York City, where the number of shooting victims in the first half of 2025 fell to its lowest level in three decades. Statistics released by NYPD revealed that there were 397 shooting victims citywide, a reduction of 125 compared to the same period last year, reflecting a 24% drop. The number of homicides also decreased significantly, with 146 reported in the first six months, a reduction of 44 from the previous year.
The community continues to grapple with the implications of these events, highlighting a stark contrast between the hope for reduced violence and the realities faced by residents. The ongoing investigation signals a need for increased focus on public safety and community resilience in the wake of such tragedies.
