Photo: Ajax9 / iStock / Getty Images
Syracuse police are making progress in the investigation of a fatal shooting that claimed the life of 15-year-old Adhon Thomas near the Upper Onondaga Park Pool. The incident occurred on Tuesday (June 24) when Thomas was shot in the abdomen just outside the pool's fencing. He was transported to Upstate University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, according to Syracuse.com.
The Syracuse Police Department has identified a suspect, and an arrest is expected soon, as stated by Mayor Ben Walsh in an interview with WSTM-TV. The gun used in the shooting has not yet been recovered, but police are actively pursuing leads.
The shooting has prompted an increased police presence near local pools to ensure public safety. The pool, which was closed following the incident, has since reopened. Parks Commissioner Syeisha Byrd confirmed that staff followed emergency procedures and are being offered counseling and support, as reported by WSYR-TV.
Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens emphasized the need for community action to address gun violence, stating, "These guns have got to come off our streets." The Syracuse City School District has also urged families and neighbors to come together in the wake of this tragedy.