Elmira, NY — Community Mourns Loss of Yasean J. McQueen, 31, Killed in Pulaski Park Shooting
The Elmira community is reeling after a tragic and violent incident in Pulaski Park on the evening of Monday, June 9, 2025, claimed the life of 31-year-old Yasean J. McQueen. The Elmira Police Department officially identified McQueen as the victim in what authorities have called a deadly shooting that also left another individual injured.
A Summer Evening Shattered by Violence
What began as a warm, seemingly ordinary summer evening quickly turned into chaos just after 8:00 p.m., when shots rang out at Pulaski Park, a popular local gathering place for families and residents in the city’s Southside neighborhood.
Elmira police officers responded swiftly to the scene following multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire. Upon arrival, officers discovered two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.
Life Cut Short
Both victims were rushed to the hospital by emergency medical services. Tragically, Yasean McQueen was later pronounced dead at the hospital, while the second victim, whose identity has not been publicly released, is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to recover.
The nature of the shooting, whether it was targeted or a random act of violence, has not been disclosed as the investigation remains ongoing.
Police Investigation Underway
Authorities have not yet released details regarding a suspect or motive behind the shooting. The Elmira Police Department has confirmed that the case is active and under investigation, and they are urging members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or who have relevant information to come forward.
“We are doing everything possible to gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and piece together what happened,” said a spokesperson for the Elmira Police Department. “Yasean McQueen’s family deserves justice, and the community deserves answers.”
A Life Remembered
Yasean J. McQueen is being remembered by friends and family as a vibrant and loving individual, someone who made an impression on everyone he met. Known for his humor, his protective nature, and deep loyalty to those he loved, his death has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew him.
Social media has been filled with tributes and expressions of grief from loved ones.
“He didn’t deserve to go out like this,” wrote one childhood friend. “He had dreams, plans, and so much more life to live. Rest easy, Yasean.”
Community members have also begun placing candles, flowers, and messages of remembrance at Pulaski Park, marking the place where his life was taken.
Community Outcry and Renewed Calls for Change
The shooting has once again sparked concerns about gun violence in Elmira and the safety of public spaces. Residents are calling for increased patrols in high-traffic areas, more youth outreach programs, and a collective push to address the root causes of violence in the city.
“We are losing too many of our young people to gun violence,” said a local organizer. “This has to stop. We need accountability, we need peace, and we need to protect our neighborhoods.”
Seeking Justice
Elmira Police are asking anyone with surveillance footage from the area, witness accounts, or other information to call (607) 737-5626 or submit tips anonymously through local tip lines. Every piece of information could help bring justice to Yasean and his grieving family.
As the investigation continues, the Elmira community stands united in mourning and in a shared hope that this senseless act of violence will not be in vain. The memory of Yasean J. McQueen will live on through those who loved him, and through the community’s determination to seek both justice and change.
More information will be provided as authorities release updates.