Community Mourns as Queens Grandfather’s Life Cut Short by Stray Bullet, Family Demands Justice and Action on Gun Violence

Queens, NY — A community in Queens is grappling with grief after a beloved grandfather, William Alcindor, was tragically killed by a stray bullet while driving through a bustling intersection. Alcindor, a 66-year-old professional driver and Haitian immigrant, lost his life in a sudden and senseless act of violence that has left his family and friends mourning and calling for justice.

Gabriella Alcindor, his 25-year-old daughter, spoke about the profound influence her father had on her life. She recalled how he consistently encouraged her to aim high and pursue her dreams. Sadly, William Alcindor’s aspirations for his daughter will remain unfulfilled as he will no longer witness her graduate from New York University, marry, or start a family.

The fatal incident occurred on a Monday just before 5 p.m., as Alcindor was making a turn at the intersection of Baisley and Farmers Boulevard. A bullet struck him in the head, causing him to lose control of his vehicle and subsequently strike a 23-year-old pedestrian. The injured woman was hospitalized in stable condition and is expected to recover from her injuries, though she experienced significant bruising and trauma.

Alcindor was pronounced dead at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. His death has profoundly impacted his family, leaving behind a 96-year-old mother, three children, three grandchildren, and approximately 30 nieces and nephews, all of whom are struggling to come to terms with the shocking loss.

At a candlelight vigil held near the site of the shooting, family members and community leaders spoke out against the rampant gun violence that continues to plague their city. Gabriella expressed a desperate need for accountability and justice for her father, emphasizing that those responsible must face the full consequences of their actions.

The New York Police Department has released a photo of the suspected shooter, describing him as a black-haired male with a medium complexion and slim build. Authorities believe he was not acting alone and speculate that William Alcindor was not the intended target of the bullet that took his life. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and detectives are diligently working to uncover more about the circumstances leading up to the tragic event.

Family members have been informed that a suspect is in custody, though further details have not been disclosed. The potential for trying the shooter, suspected to be a juvenile, as an adult has been raised as a necessary step to address the gravity of the crime.

As the investigation continues, the Alcindor family is left to navigate their profound loss. William Alcindor, remembered as a kind, reserved man who cherished hard work and family, deeply influenced his community and relatives with his generosity and support. As the family confronts this hardship, they hope for justice, not only for closure but to prevent future tragedies in their city.