Hartford Man Fatally Shot in Waterbury Neighborhood
Waterbury police have identified a Hartford man as the victim of a fatal shooting that occurred Monday night in the city’s Brooklyn neighborhood.
Authorities confirmed on Wednesday that 29-year-old Frank Garay of Hartford was shot and killed near the intersection of Charles and Third streets. Officers responded to reports of gunfire at approximately 7:50 p.m.
Upon arriving at the scene, police found Garay suffering from a gunshot wound outside a local smoke shop. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Residents in the area were shaken by the incident. “I just heard a pop and came downstairs,” said Justin Valentine, a Waterbury resident. “I just saw his legs, and I was kind of shocked. I didn’t really want to go any further. You know, I don’t really want to see a gruesome scene.”
The neighborhood remained blocked off for several hours as Waterbury police, state police, detectives, and forensic teams combed the area for evidence. Officers canvassed the streets, went door to door, interviewed neighbors, and reviewed surveillance footage from nearby businesses and homes. Despite these efforts, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting.
“Detectives were out with their flashlights since it got dark. They’re looking under porches. They’re looking everywhere,” said Percy Dozier, who lives nearby. Dozier recalled hearing a single gunshot on Monday night but wasn’t certain of its origin until police arrived shortly before 8 p.m.
The Brooklyn neighborhood of Waterbury, where the shooting occurred, has historically faced challenges with crime, though residents emphasize that violent incidents remain rare. Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Garay’s death and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Authorities have not released any details regarding a possible motive, and the investigation is ongoing.
