Harlem Community Remembers Grandmother Excenia Mette, Killed in Gunfire
NEW YORK – A somber gathering took place in Harlem on Tuesday night to honor the life of Excenia Mette, a 61-year-old grandmother who tragically lost her life due to an unexpected shooting incident.
Incident Overview
The shooting occurred at approximately 10:20 p.m. on Malcolm X Boulevard, where two groups were reportedly involved in an exchange of gunfire. Mette, a resident of the area, was shot while standing on the sidewalk, caught in the crossfire.
She suffered a gunshot wound to the head and was rushed to Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased.
Community Response
Mette was remembered as a beloved member of her community, often regarded as a pillar of support for her neighbors. As the news of her death spread, a deep sense of loss enveloped the local community.
Mayor Eric Adams expressed his condemnation of the incident during a press conference, highlighting the ongoing issue of repeat offenders contributing to violent crime. Adams stated, “No one expects coming from a store, beauty salon, or visiting a loved one to have notification that they lost a loved one due to this senseless violence.”
Adams specifically pointed to the suspect’s troubling history, noting prior criminal activity, which included two stabbings and a robbery within the previous year.
Casualties and Ongoing Investigation
In addition to Mette’s tragic death, another victim, a 23-year-old male, sustained a foot injury during the incident. He is currently in stable condition at the hospital, receiving treatment for his wounds.
Authorities have reported that a person of interest is in custody related to the shooting, although as of now, no formal charges have been filed. The investigation remains active as police continue to gather information.