Tragic Loss of Alyson Elien: 23-Year-Old Seaford Man Fatally Shot in Cambridge, Community Demands Justice

CAMBRIDGE, MD — June 8, 2025 — A deep sense of grief and outrage is sweeping through the communities of Cambridge, Maryland, and Seaford, Delaware, after a young life was senselessly taken in an act of violence that has left family, friends, and neighbors reeling. The victim has been identified as 23-year-old Alyson Elien, a resident of Seaford whose promising future was cut short by a fatal shooting on Sunday evening in the 900 block of Camelia Street in Cambridge.

According to the Cambridge Police Department (CPD), officers were dispatched to the scene at approximately 8:55 p.m. after receiving several 911 calls reporting gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, officers discovered Elien suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Emergency medical personnel rushed to the scene and transported him to the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Dorchester, where, despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

As of Monday afternoon, no arrests have been made, and police have not publicly named any suspects. However, investigators say they are pursuing several leads and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses. Detectives are also urging anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious in the area Sunday night to come forward.

“This is a devastating loss, and our hearts are with the family of Alyson Elien,” said CPD Chief Mark Lewis in a public statement. “We will not rest until we uncover the truth behind this senseless act of violence and hold those responsible accountable.”

Elien’s family and friends are struggling to make sense of the tragedy. Originally from Seaford, Alyson was described by loved ones as kind-hearted, deeply loyal, and full of ambition. A recent graduate who had been working toward a career in trades and technical services, Elien was known for being a hardworking individual who stayed out of trouble and put family first.

“He was one of the good ones,” said family friend Darnell Rivers. “Always smiling, always helping others. He had goals. He wanted to do something with his life.”

The suddenness and brutality of Elien’s death have shaken both Cambridge and Seaford, prompting an outpouring of condolences and calls for justice on social media. Vigils are being planned in both communities, with residents organizing gatherings to remember Elien’s life and raise awareness about the growing concern over gun violence in the region.

“This kind of violence has no place in our city,” said Cambridge City Councilwoman Lisa Martin. “Alyson’s death is not just a tragedy—it’s a wake-up call. We must come together as a community to stop this cycle of senseless loss.”

Local residents in the Camelia Street neighborhood expressed fear and frustration over the shooting, noting that it occurred in an area typically considered safe. One resident, who asked not to be named, said, “This is not something we’re used to seeing here. We’re heartbroken. It could’ve been any of us.”

In the wake of the tragedy, Elien’s family has launched a memorial fund to assist with funeral costs and support efforts to combat youth violence and promote safety. Those wishing to contribute or express their condolences can do so through the family’s official online campaign page.

The Cambridge Police Department asks anyone with information about the shooting to contact their Criminal Investigations Division at (410) 228-3333. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Dorchester County Crime Solvers.

As the investigation continues, one thing is clear: Alyson Elien’s memory will not be forgotten. His loved ones and community are vowing to keep his name alive, demand justice, and work to prevent another tragedy like this from happening again.