ROCHESTER, N.Y. — 17-Year-Old Danyelisse Pabon-Cubero Dies After Double Shooting on Alphonse Street; Suspect in Custody
A Rochester community is in mourning following the death of 17-year-old Danyelisse Pabon-Cubero, who succumbed to her injuries nearly a week after being critically wounded in a double shooting on Alphonse Street. The Rochester Police Department (RPD) confirmed her death on Sunday, May 5, marking a tragic end to a case that has gripped the city with sorrow and outrage.
The shooting occurred in the early morning hours of Tuesday, April 30, when officers responded to reports of gunfire around 1:30 a.m. in the residential area of Alphonse Street. Upon arrival, police found two victims suffering from multiple gunshot wounds: Pabon-Cubero and an adult male in his 30s. Both were rushed to Strong Memorial Hospital, where the man was treated for his injuries and ultimately survived.
Pabon-Cubero, however, was listed in critical condition and fought for her life for five days before passing away. Her death has devastated family members, friends, classmates, and neighbors who describe her as a bright, caring, and ambitious young woman with dreams for her future.
“She had such a beautiful soul,” said one family friend. “She was the kind of person who lit up every room she walked into. This is a heartbreaking loss not just for her family, but for our whole community.”
Following the shooting, police launched an intensive investigation that quickly led them to identify 18-year-old Michael Garcia as the primary suspect. That same day, Garcia was apprehended during a lengthy SWAT operation in Brockport, bringing him into custody without further incident. Authorities have not released details on the motive, but confirm that Garcia is facing charges in connection to the shooting.
Investigators are now working with the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office to determine whether additional or upgraded charges will be filed in light of Pabon-Cubero’s death. As of now, Garcia remains in custody as the legal process unfolds.
The killing has once again intensified conversations in Rochester about youth violence, access to firearms, and the safety of teenagers in vulnerable neighborhoods. Community leaders are calling for urgent investment in outreach programs, mental health resources, and conflict resolution training for at-risk youth.
“This is another senseless act of gun violence that has taken the life of a young person who had so much promise,” said one local advocate during a Sunday vigil. “We cannot let her death be in vain. We must continue to fight for safer streets and stronger support systems for our children.”
The Rochester Police Department is continuing its investigation and encourages anyone with additional information to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 585-423-9300 or via the RPD Major Crimes Unit.
A memorial is growing near the scene on Alphonse Street, where flowers, candles, and handwritten notes are being left in tribute to Danyelisse Pabon-Cubero, whose life, though brief, has left a lasting impact on those who knew and loved her