BREAKING: Woman in Critical Condition After Shooting in Waterbury, Connecticut
Waterbury, CT (May 19, 2025) — A 26-year-old woman is fighting for her life after being shot Monday afternoon in what authorities are describing as a potentially targeted incident in the city of Waterbury. According to the Waterbury Police Department, the victim sustained life-threatening gunshot wounds but managed to drive herself to the emergency room at Saint Mary’s Hospital, arriving around 4:00 p.m.
Hospital staff immediately alerted police upon her arrival. The woman was rushed into emergency care and remains in critical condition, authorities confirmed. Her identity has not been released at this time pending notification of family.
Crime Scene Located on Waterville Street
In the hours following the incident, investigators quickly began working to determine the location of the shooting. Based on preliminary interviews and forensic evidence, police now believe the crime occurred near 218 Waterville Street, a mixed-use area in the northern section of Waterbury that includes residences and small businesses.
The area was cordoned off by police shortly after the hospital notification. Investigators, including members of the Waterbury Police Detective Bureau and the Crime Scene Unit, canvassed the neighborhood for evidence and witness statements. Police have not yet announced any suspects or arrests, and it remains unclear whether the victim knew her attacker.
Community Shaken as Violence Strikes in Broad Daylight
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the local community. Residents and business owners in the Waterville Street area expressed concern over the recent uptick in violence, particularly in the daytime hours. “We heard some loud pops, maybe three or four. It wasn’t until later that we realized it was gunfire,” said one nearby resident who declined to be named. “It’s scary knowing this happened so close to home.”
Surveillance footage from local buildings and traffic cameras is currently being reviewed by police to help identify potential suspects or vehicles involved. Officers are also seeking any witnesses who may have seen the altercation or the immediate aftermath.
Police Urge Public Cooperation
Waterbury Police have asked the public to come forward with any information that might assist the investigation. In a statement released late Monday evening, a department spokesperson said:
“We are actively working to determine the circumstances that led to this shooting. Anyone who was in the area of 218 Waterville Street around 4 p.m. is urged to contact the Waterbury Police Department. No tip is too small.”
Anonymous tips can also be submitted via the Waterbury Crime Stoppers line.
A City Grappling With Gun Violence
This shooting adds to a concerning trend of gun-related incidents in Waterbury in recent months. Community leaders and city officials have been calling for more resources for violence prevention and intervention programs, especially those targeting youth and high-crime areas.
Mayor Neil O’Leary addressed the incident briefly during an evening press event unrelated to the shooting. “My thoughts are with the victim and her family tonight. I want the people of Waterbury to know that we are committed to stopping this kind of violence, and we will use every tool at our disposal to bring the perpetrator to justice,” he said.
Ongoing Investigation
As of now, no further details about the motive, suspect description, or the victim’s current medical condition have been released. The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Authorities are expected to provide an update once more information is available. In the meantime, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
If you have any information related to this incident, please contact the Waterbury Police Department at (203) 574-6941 or submit an anonymous tip through the Waterbury Crime Stoppers program.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as new information becomes available.