Stefon Barnes, a 29-year-old innocent bystander, was fatally shot inside a Bronx bodega during a botched robbery on Easter Sunday. The incident occurred when a thief attempted to mug another shopper and during the struggle, the gunman fired a shot that struck Barnes in the thigh. Despite being taken to St. Barnabas Hospital, he later succumbed to his injuries. Prior to the shooting, Barnes had simply been looking at a rack of chips inside the store when the altercation took place.
Video footage from the scene captured moments before the shooting showed revelers, including a woman wearing bunny ears, dancing and singing inside the deli. Antonio Sanchez, who was inside the store just minutes before the shooting, mentioned that Barnes wasn’t involved in the altercation, but was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Sanchez recalled Barnes being calm and greeting him before the shooting occurred. He expressed shock and sadness over the tragic incident, mistaking the gunshot for firecrackers due to the area’s commonality with such loud noises.
Following the shooting, a makeshift memorial was set up outside the deli to honor Barnes. The memorial included bouquets of flowers in vases made from tequila bottles, candles, and messages written by mourners on a piece of cardboard. A heartfelt message from one mourner stated, “U will forever be missed. They took your beautiful soul too early,” illustrating the impact of Barnes’ untimely death on those who knew him. Another message read, “Sleep easy Stephy,” serving as a tribute to Barnes and a reminder of the loss felt by those who knew him.
The NYPD released a photo of the suspected shooter, who was seen wearing black attire and described as having a medium complexion, standing around 5-foot-10 to 6 feet tall with a medium build. Authorities are actively seeking information leading to the arrest of the individual responsible for Barnes’ death. The tragic incident highlights the tragic consequences of gun violence and the devastating impact it can have on innocent bystanders who are simply going about their daily lives.
The senseless shooting of Stefon Barnes has left the community in shock and mourning as they come to terms with the loss of a young life. Barnes, an innocent bystander who was simply in the store at the wrong time, became a victim of a robbery that went awry. The memorial outside the bodega serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of gun violence and the importance of addressing safety in communities. As authorities continue their search for the suspect, Barnes’ loved ones and the community at large seek justice for his untimely death.
The tragic death of Stefon Barnes underscores the need for continued efforts to address gun violence in communities and prevent senseless acts that claim innocent lives. As mourners pay tribute to Barnes and call for justice in his case, there is a sense of loss and sorrow over the circumstances that led to his death. The community’s response to Barnes’ death reflects a collective desire for peace, safety, and accountability, as they come together to honor his memory and advocate for a safer environment for all. The legacy of Stefon Barnes serves as a reminder of the impact of gun violence and the importance of working towards a future free from such tragedies.
