19-Year-Old Shot to Death in New Bedford Identified as Jordan “JoJo” Roman: Authorities Investigate Motive as Community Mourns

New Bedford, MA – The 19-year-old male who was tragically shot and killed in New Bedford on Tuesday, April 30, 2025, has been identified as Jordan “JoJo” Roman, a resident of the city. The shooting, which occurred in the late afternoon hours, has left the community in shock as they mourn the loss of a young man with a promising future.

Details of the Incident

The New Bedford Police Department responded to reports of gunfire near the intersection of Washington Street and Purchase Street shortly after 4:00 p.m. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered Roman suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save his life, Roman was pronounced dead at the scene.

Witnesses reported seeing a vehicle speed away from the area shortly after the gunfire, prompting police to believe the shooting was a targeted attack. Investigators are working to determine a motive for the crime, and they have not ruled out gang-related involvement. At this time, no arrests have been made, and the police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.

Jordan “JoJo” Roman: A Young Man with a Bright Future

Jordan Roman, known to his friends and family as “JoJo,” was described as a hardworking and caring individual who was beloved by those who knew him. Roman had recently graduated from New Bedford High School, where he was a well-liked member of the community. His friends and family have expressed their shock and grief over his tragic death.

“He was always the life of the party, and he had this incredible energy that would light up a room,” said a close friend of Roman, who wished to remain anonymous. “JoJo was so full of life and had so much to look forward to. It’s hard to believe he’s gone.”

Roman was known for his love of sports, particularly basketball, and was active in his community. He had dreams of pursuing a career in construction and hoped to use his skills to make a difference in the city he loved. His family remembers him as a loving son, brother, and friend.

“He was a good kid,” said his mother, who asked to remain unnamed. “He would help anyone in need, and he had such a big heart. It’s just devastating to think that his life was taken so suddenly and so violently.”

Community Outrage and Support

Roman’s death has sparked outrage in the community, with many residents expressing concern over the rising violence in the area. Local activists and community leaders have called for more action to prevent gun violence and provide better support for at-risk youth in the city.

“This senseless violence has to stop,” said Marisol Gonzalez, a local activist. “Jordan’s death is a painful reminder that we need more resources to support our young people. We need to address the root causes of violence and ensure that our community is a safe place for everyone, especially our youth.”

A candlelight vigil has been planned for this weekend in Roman’s honor, where friends, family, and community members will gather to mourn his loss and call for an end to gun violence in the city.

Investigation and Search for Suspects

The New Bedford Police Department has stated that the investigation into Roman’s death is ongoing. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and speaking with witnesses in hopes of identifying the suspect(s) responsible for the shooting. Authorities have also issued a public plea for anyone with information to come forward.

“We are doing everything we can to solve this case and bring justice to Jordan and his family,” said Lieutenant David Rodriguez of the New Bedford Police Department. “If you saw anything suspicious in the area or have any information that might help, please contact us or reach out to Crime Stoppers. We need the community’s help to solve this crime.”

In the meantime, the family of Jordan Roman is left grappling with the loss of a loved one and hoping for justice. They are asking for privacy during this difficult time but are also calling for any witnesses to step forward.

A Call for Justice and Change

Jordan Roman’s family and friends are not only seeking justice but are also calling for change in their community. They hope that his tragic death will serve as a catalyst for greater efforts to address violence and provide resources for youth in the area.

“We just want to know why this happened,” said a family member of Roman’s. “Jordan was a good kid, and no one should have to go through what we’re going through right now. We need to do better, and we need to make sure that other families don’t have to experience this kind of pain.”

As the investigation continues, the community remains in mourning, remembering Jordan “JoJo” Roman as a young man who had so much potential and who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact the New Bedford Police Department at (508) 991-6350 or anonymously through the Crime Stoppers tip line at (800) 462-TIPS (8477).