Father of Maplewood Park shooting victim in pursuit of justice, ‘It’s just a matter of time’

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Phylicia Council’s dad, Alex Reese Council, says he won’t rest until his 33-year-old daughter’s killers are found.

Council and 25-year-old Tyasia Manning were fatally wounded when gunmen opened fire at a community barbeque in Maplewood Park.  It was in the middle of the day on July 28.

Eight weeks later, Alex Council said news that a suspect has been identified is giving him a glimmer of hope.

“I believe they’re going to catch them. It’s just a matter of time,” Council explained during an interview via Zoom.

From his home in South Florida, Council says he is doing what he can to keep his daughter’s memory alive and process her death.

“She comes down here every year for my birthday. I’m going to miss that,” he said.

Rochester Police Captain Frank Umbrino named 20-year-old Niger Johnson as their first suspect. He’s wanted for reckless endangerment and criminal possession of a weapon.  In addition to the reward offered by police, Council has set up a GoFundMe to raise $10 thousand.  He says he’s looking forward to giving the money to the person who helps him find justice for his daughter.

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