Tragic Loss: 17-Year-Old Tyrome Gatewood Jr. Fatally Shot in Pittsburgh’s Carrick Neighborhood, Leaving Community in Mourning and Authorities Searching for Answers

Pittsburgh, PA – A sense of grief and devastation has settled over the Carrick neighborhood in Pittsburgh following the tragic and untimely passing of 17-year-old Tyrome Gatewood Jr. The young man, full of promise and potential, lost his life on March 28, 2025, in a shooting incident that has left the community shaken and searching for answers.

According to local law enforcement, officers responded to reports of gunfire in the Carrick area late Friday evening. Upon arrival, they discovered Gatewood Jr. suffering from critical gunshot wounds. Emergency responders rushed him to a nearby hospital, but despite the best efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries.

Authorities have yet to release specific details about the events leading up to the shooting, but an investigation is ongoing. Pittsburgh police are urging anyone with information to come forward as they work tirelessly to identify those responsible for this senseless act of violence.

A Promising Young Life Cut Short

Tyrome Gatewood Jr. was more than just a name in the headlines—he was a beloved son, a loyal friend, and a dedicated athlete. As a high school student, he was known for his determination both in academics and sports, particularly his love for football. His coaches and teammates remember him as a hardworking player who always brought energy and enthusiasm to the field.

“Tyrome had such a bright future ahead of him,” said one of his former coaches. “He was dedicated, disciplined, and always willing to help his teammates. This loss is unbearable.”

His friends describe him as someone who could light up any room with his smile and was always there for those he cared about. “He was like a brother to me,” one close friend shared. “We talked about our dreams, our futures… and now he’s gone. It doesn’t feel real.”

Family and Community in Mourning

Tyrome’s sudden passing has left his family in unimaginable grief. His parents, devastated by the loss of their only son, have requested privacy during this difficult time but have expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the community. A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help the family cover funeral expenses, and a candlelight vigil is planned in his honor at Carrick High School on Sunday evening.

“This violence has to stop,” said a family member. “No parent should have to bury their child. We need justice for Tyrome.”

Calls for Justice and Change

As the investigation continues, city leaders and community activists are once again urging for action against gun violence, which continues to take the lives of young individuals in Pittsburgh and beyond.

“We have lost yet another promising young soul to senseless violence,” said a Pittsburgh City Council member. “We must come together as a community, as a city, to find solutions and make sure tragedies like this stop happening.”

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Pittsburgh Police Department or Crime Stoppers.

Tyrome Gatewood Jr.’s life was one of promise, hope, and dedication. As his loved ones come together to honor his memory, the community mourns not just his loss, but the loss of what could have been.