Syracuse, NY – The heart of Syracuse’s near westside neighborhood is heavy with grief following the fatal shooting of 40-year-old Eddie Washington Jr. on Wednesday night. The devastating incident, which occurred outside the James Geddes housing complex, has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving residents shaken and authorities urgently seeking information to bring the perpetrators to justice. Washington was pronounced dead at Upstate University Hospital after being rushed there following the late-night violence.
Syracuse Police Department spokesperson Sgt. Thomas Blake confirmed that officers responding to the scene discovered Washington suffering from critical gunshot wounds to both his head and chest. The grim discovery was made near 317 Tully Street, a location that has now become the focal point of a tragic narrative unfolding in the city. Despite the immediate response from first responders, life-saving efforts proved tragically unsuccessful, underscoring the persistent challenge of gun violence plaguing the area.
The alarm was first raised around 9:36 p.m. when a ShotSpotter system alerted police to gunfire in the 300 block of Tully Street. Upon their arrival, officers found Washington unresponsive and not breathing, according to dispatch reports from Onondaga County 911. The scene was immediately secured as investigators began the meticulous process of gathering evidence from what was clearly a life-threatening situation.
Adding to the violence, police confirmed that two vehicles parked in the vicinity were also struck by gunfire during the incident. This detail paints a stark picture of the dangerous circumstances and the indiscriminate nature of the shooting, highlighting the potential risks faced by nearby residents. As a result of the extensive investigation, Tully Street was temporarily closed between Wyoming Street and Tioga Street, allowing law enforcement the necessary time to thoroughly document and process the crime scene.
The Syracuse Police Department is actively continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding this deadly shooting. As of now, no arrests have been announced, leaving a void in the search for accountability. Detectives are making a heartfelt plea to the public, urging anyone who may possess even the slightest piece of information that could shed light on the case to come forward. They emphasize that even seemingly minor details can prove to be crucial clues as investigators work diligently to identify those responsible for Eddie Washington Jr.’s untimely death.
Authorities are specifically appealing to any individuals who may have witnessed or heard anything unusual on the night of the shooting to contact the Syracuse Police Department directly at (315) 442-5222. In this somber period as the community mourns the profound loss of Eddie Washington Jr., law enforcement remains steadfast in their commitment to pursuing justice and providing essential support to all those impacted by this devastating tragedy.
The loss of Eddie Washington Jr. is a somber reminder of the ongoing battles against gun violence in our cities. As the investigation continues, the Syracuse community is left to grapple with the aftermath and hope for swift resolution and peace in the wake of such senseless violence. The coming days will likely see a community coming together, sharing memories and seeking solace while law enforcement works tirelessly to piece together the events of that fateful Wednesday night.
