Shooting at George Washington Houses in Harlem raises residents’ concerns

HARLEM, Manhattan (PIX11) — A longtime Harlem resident witnessed the aftermath of a police-involved shooting at George Washington Houses early Sunday morning.

The shooting happened near 103rd Street and Third Avenue, resulting in a heavy police presence.

Haydee Feliciano, a 50-year resident of George Washington Houses in East Harlem, was startled by gunshots while watching TV in her apartment.

“I never seen so many cops,” Feliciano remarked, noting that while she occasionally hears loud noises in the area, this time was different.

The shooting, which took place around 12:30 a.m., involved a 62-year-old man who was reportedly armed and did not comply with police commands to drop his weapon.

“The two officers discharged their firearms, striking the man. The officers immediately requested EMS and performed CPR. The man was removed to an area hospital and was pronounced deceased,” NYPD Chief of Housing Martine Materasso said.

Authorities recovered a gun from the scene and confirmed that there are no other suspects at large. However, the incident has left residents concerned about neighborhood safety.

“I’m an elderly, I don’t go down there anymore because I’m scared,” Feliciano expressed.

Despite the unsettling events, Feliciano remains hopeful and plans to seek solace in her faith.

“I’m going to church to pray for everybody for peace,” she said.

Police assure that there is no immediate threat in the area and no additional suspects. The investigation is ongoing, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.

Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org , downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).

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