In a devastating incident on Tuesday morning, the peace of downtown Rochester, NY, was shattered as gunshots rang out near the Regional Transit Service (RTS) center on St. Paul Street. Rochester police responded swiftly to the scene, discovering two victims of the shooting, one of whom tragically lost their life. As investigations unfold, the community is left grappling with the shock and seeking answers to the unsettling event.

Details of the Incident:

The incident occurred around 7:45 a.m., catching the attention of patrolling officers who were in the vicinity. According to Captain Greg Bello of the Rochester Police Department, the shots were fired near the intersection of St. Paul Street and Mortimer Street. Witnesses in the area also dialed 911 to report the alarming situation.

Tragically, one of the shooting victims, identified as a man, was pronounced dead at the scene. The second victim, also a man, sustained injuries that, thankfully, were not deemed life-threatening. Emergency responders rushed him to Strong Memorial Hospital for prompt medical attention.

Swift Police Response:

Rochester police acted swiftly in response to the shooting, apprehending a person of interest near East Main Street. The individual is currently in police custody and is being questioned regarding the incident. Despite the rapid response, the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, leaving authorities to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy.

Not a Random Act of Violence:

Captain Bello emphasized that, based on the preliminary investigation, the incident did not appear to be a random act of violence. While the exact motive remains elusive, this statement offers some reassurance to the community that the incident may be isolated and not indicative of a broader threat.

Impact on Regional Transit Service:

In the aftermath of the shooting, RTS temporarily relocated its bus operations to Chestnut Street on Tuesday morning. This precautionary measure allowed law enforcement to secure the crime scene and conduct a thorough investigation. Meanwhile, a section of St. Paul Street remained closed as police worked diligently to gather evidence.

Community Response:

The Rochester community is left in shock and mourning following this tragic event. As details emerge and the investigation progresses, community leaders and residents are likely to come together to support each other and seek ways to prevent such incidents in the future.

The shooting near the RTS center in downtown Rochester has left the community reeling from the loss of one life and the injury of another. With investigations ongoing, residents are anxiously awaiting more information about the motive behind this heartbreaking incident. As the city grapples with the aftermath, there is a collective hope for justice and a renewed commitment to fostering safety and security for all residents.