Buffalo, New York – A fatal shooting occurred early Tuesday morning at a bar on Hertel Avenue, as confirmed by Buffalo police. The incident took place on the patio of Del Denby Tavern, leading to the bar’s closure by the city later that day. The victim, a 46-year-old city resident whose identity has been withheld, was shot around 1:11 a.m. at the bar’s location on 1553 Hertel, just west of Parkside Avenue, and was subsequently transported by ambulance to Erie County Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward by contacting the department’s confidential tip line at 716-847-2255. Chief of Detectives Craig Macy stated during a news conference that based on their ongoing investigation, it is believed that the shooter and the victim were acquainted with each other, indicating that the incident was not a random occurrence. Macy avoided commenting on whether a suspect had been identified, but clarified that no suspect was in custody at the time of the news conference.
The fatal altercation took place following an argument that ensued between the victim and the shooter after they had been inside the bar having drinks together. Surveillance footage from various cameras in the area, including a city camera at the corner of Hertel and Parkside, is being reviewed by detectives to gather more information regarding the incident. Additionally, previous reports of a shooting and shots being fired at the bar have been documented, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety and security in the area.
In response to the violent incident, the city promptly issued a “Cease All Operations” notice, resulting in the temporary closure of the bar. Bar owners will have the opportunity to present their case before the city’s Permits and Inspections Department in hopes of reopening, although a hearing date has not yet been scheduled. This tragic event marks the fourth homicide in Buffalo within the past 11 days, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced measures to address escalating violence in the city.