Jaden Pierre has been identified as the man shot and killed in the tragic incident at the age of 15. Roy Wilkins Park, QueensNew York yesterday. former mayor Eric Adams shared a video of the altercation that led to Pierre being shot.
“Yesterday, a 15-year-old was beaten and shot to death at a playground in southeast Queens. Somehow this wasn’t the headline news. Thanks to AG Letitia James and BP Richards for speaking out,” Adams wrote. He added: “Where is everyone else including @NYCMayor Mamdani? Anger should not depend on zip code. Every child deserves to be protected. “
Video shows a fight breaking out and Pierre reportedly being shot in the chest and succumbing to his injuries. Here’s everything you need to know about Jaden Pierre.
Jaden Pierre: 5 things to know
- Pierre, who lived in south Richmond Hill, was shot in a St. Albans park about 6:16 p.m., police said. Before the shooting, a fight broke out near the basketball court involving a number of children.
- Pierre had attended Eagle Academy, which was located just down the street from the park.
- Yesterday, an eyewitness recalled Pierre as a “cool kid” who was good at basketball.
- According to the video, at least a dozen teenagers witnessed Pierre’s shooting. He was reportedly beaten by his peers before being shot in the chest.
- Many in the community mourned Pierre’s passing. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards wrote: “The pain of losing 15-year-old Jaden Pierre to gun violence is indescribable. Today, a hole was opened in our community, and I grieve alongside his family, friends, fellow Eagle Academy classmates and teachers, and everyone who loved him. His life was meaningful.”
Police release photos and details of suspect
While the senseless violence and Pierre’s death shocked the local community, police have released more details about the suspect, including what he may have been wearing.
“Wanted for the murder of a 15-year-old teen: On April 16, 2026 at 6:15 p.m., a teen was shot to death near Merrick Blvd and Baisley Blvd in Queens. The NYPD is seeking this individual in connection with the shooting,” they wrote.
Authorities condemned the incident as a “horrible act of violence” and said the shooting suspect was wearing gray clothing and white sneakers at the time of the attack.
