Suspect in fatal shooting at Manhattan graduation barbecue identified, photo released by authorities.

Police have released a photograph of a suspect in the fatal shooting of a 21-year-old man during a crowded graduation barbeque held outside the Robert Fulton Houses in Chelsea, an incident that occurred on June 4, 2025. This incident has drawn significant concern from the local community as it unfolded in a public setting during a celebratory event.

The victim, identified as Raqiese Cohen, was shot in the neck while attending the gathering on West 17th Street. Witnesses reported the chaos that ensued, with attendees initially mistaking the gunfire for the sound of fireworks. When law enforcement arrived at the scene, they found Cohen lying unresponsive on a bench. Numerous bullet casings were scattered across the ground, marking the violent incident. Emergency medical services transported Cohen to Bellevue Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.

According to reports from residents who witnessed the shooting, the atmosphere quickly turned tense as the sound of gunfire interrupted the festivities. One resident recounted the scene, describing how chaos erupted among the attendees, particularly children, who were playing at the barbeque. Despite immediate efforts from bystanders, including calls for medical assistance and attempts to provide first aid, Cohen was pronounced dead.

Cohen was known to live in the housing project located just a short distance from where he was shot, highlighting the tragic nature of the event within his community. Currently, the motive behind the shooting remains unknown, and police are actively seeking information that could lead to apprehension of the suspect, spotted in a blue sweatshirt fleeing the scene toward East 18th Street and Eighth Avenue.

This incident marks a grim reminder of the pervasive issue of gun violence in urban areas and showcases the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to ensure community safety. Over 200 people were present at the barbeque intended to celebrate the graduations of local teens, underscoring the profound impact of such violence on communal gatherings and the broader implications of safety in public spaces.

As investigations continue, police urge anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in addressing and preventing further acts of violence. The unsettling reality of this shooting serves as a call to action for local authorities and residents alike to foster safer environments.