Authorities are investigating two separate fatal shootings that occurred within a short time span Thursday night in the Bronx. Officials say the incidents happened about an hour apart in different neighborhoods and are not believed to be connected.
According to police, the first shooting was reported around 9:30 p.m. in the Williamsbridge area. Investigators said an altercation began inside a deli on Bronxwood Avenue and continued outside. During the incident, a 22-year-old man, identified as Ricardo Bygrave, was shot. He was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
Police returned to the area the following morning to review surveillance footage and continue gathering evidence. Officials say the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remains ongoing.
Roughly an hour later, a second, unrelated shooting occurred in the Morris Heights neighborhood. Authorities said a dispute between neighbors escalated, leading to gunfire. A 21-year-old man, identified as Justin Chatfield, sustained injuries and was transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that a 76-year-old man, identified as Gilbert Smalls, has been taken into custody in connection with the Morris Heights incident. He faces multiple charges, including murder, manslaughter, and criminal possession of a weapon, according to police.
The shootings come as city officials recently shared updated crime statistics. Authorities noted an overall decline in major crimes across the Bronx, though they acknowledged that the number of homicide cases has remained relatively unchanged compared to the same period last year.
Police leadership say they are continuing to focus resources on areas most affected by violent crime, with targeted deployments aimed at improving safety. Officials emphasized that these efforts have contributed to reductions in several crime categories, even as investigations into serious incidents continue.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to either case to come forward. Tips can assist investigators as they work to determine the full details of both incidents.
Both cases remain active investigations, and police say additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
