Man shot on his birthday in the Bronx, brother who witnessed the incident also suffers injuries.
In a tragic incident that unfolded early Sunday morning in the Bronx, 44-year-old Keon Gill was shot and killed during what was supposed to be a celebratory outing for his birthday. His younger brother, who was with him at the time, was also wounded in the attack, according to the victim’s mother, Brenda Gill, aged 68.
The events took place shortly before 3 a.m. on Sunday as the Gill brothers were leaving a nightclub located near West 242nd Street and Broadway in the Riverdale area. The family has revealed that, prior to the shooting, the brothers had stopped at a store and were heading to their car parked near Van Cortlandt Park when they were confronted by an unidentified gunman. Brenda Gill described the heart-wrenching ordeal, revealing that her son Keon had turned 44 the very day he was murdered while celebrating with his brother and friends in the Bronx, where he once resided. He had recently relocated to Middletown, New York, approximately 70 miles from the city.
The confrontation escalated quickly, resulting in gunfire. Keon Gill was shot in the chest and succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival at St. Barnabas Hospital. His brother, who suffered a gunshot wound to the leg and was grazed by a bullet on the head, fortunately survived the incident.
Family members have expressed their grief over Keon’s violent death, with Brenda Gill reflecting on her last conversation with her son just days before the tragic event. The family’s sorrow is compounded by the reality of his four children, who are now grappling with the loss of their father. Brenda recounted how devastated they were, bewildered by the senseless act of violence that took their father away.
Authorities have reported that the shooter remains at large, and the motive behind this violent altercation is currently under investigation. The incident has not only shaken the Gill family but has also raised concerns in the Riverdale community about safety and the continuing issue of gun violence.
Keon Gill was remembered not only as a devoted father but also for his athletic talents, having played basketball throughout his life and inspiring his children to pursue their own passions. His ex-wife, Mahogany Gill, emphasized his dedication to family, noting that he often prioritized their needs over his ambitions. In a poignant gesture, the YMCA of Middletown announced plans to honor Keon by wearing a memorial jersey in his memory during the upcoming season, preserving his legacy within the community.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a father, son, and friend whose life was cut short in a moment of violence, raising urgent discussions on the need for change in dealing with such tragedies.
