NEW YORK, NY – A tragic incident unfolded in East Harlem as a 19-year-old man, Ramon Alvarez, was fatally shot by a gunman identified as Jose Rodriguez, who targeted his ex-girlfriend, the victim’s aunt, inside an apartment in the NYCHA’s Jefferson Houses, according to police reports on Friday. Rodriguez, a 54-year-old homeless individual, is now facing charges of murder, assault, and illegal possession of weapons following the shooting early on Wednesday.
Rodriguez allegedly forced his way into his ex-girlfriend Melidy Adega’s apartment, where he proceeded to open fire, with the first victim being Alvarez, who rushed into the room upon hearing the altercation. Despite Adega managing to grab the gun before Rodriguez could shoot her, Alvarez sustained critical injuries and later succumbed to his wounds at Harlem Hospital. The entire ordeal left Adega injured as well, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
After the shooting, Rodriguez fled the scene on a bicycle, leaving behind the discarded weapon, only to be apprehended by authorities the following day. With a history of numerous prior arrests, the suspect now awaits his arraignment in Manhattan Criminal Court. Adega revealed that her relationship with Rodriguez had been tumultuous, eventually prompting her to end the abusive dynamic they shared.
Alvarez, a dedicated employee at the city’s Department of Parks & Recreation, was described as a hardworking individual who was also striving to further his education by obtaining his GED. His impending fatherhood added to the tragedy, as he was eagerly anticipating the birth of his first child with his girlfriend. The loss has deeply impacted his family, leaving them devastated and struggling to come to terms with the heartbreaking reality.
As friends and loved ones mourn the loss of a young, promising life, the community in East Harlem grapples with the aftermath of the senseless violence that shattered their sense of security. The heartbreaking story serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic disputes turned deadly, urging for greater awareness and intervention to prevent such tragedies from recurring.