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The Syracuse Police Department is increasing patrols around city pools following a tragic shooting incident at the Upper Onondaga Park Pool. On Tuesday (June 24), 15-year-old Adhon Thomas was shot in the abdomen near the pool's fencing. He was rushed to Upstate University Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the shooter remains at large.
According to Syracuse.com, the city's ShotSpotter system detected gunfire around 2 p.m., prompting a swift police response. Officers arrived to find the pool area already cleared and secured with police tape. The pool has since been closed, and the investigation is ongoing.
The shooting occurred on a day of record-breaking heat in Syracuse, as reported by CNY Central. Mayor Walsh had encouraged residents to use the pools to stay cool, leading to a busy day at the park. Despite the presence of one officer at the park, they were not near the pool when the shooting happened.
The Syracuse Police Department is urging anyone with information about the incident to contact their Criminal Investigations Division at 315-442-5222. The increased police presence around pools aims to ensure safety and prevent further incidents.