NEW HAVEN, Conn. — A deadly shooting in downtown New Haven early Sunday has left an 18-year-old man dead and another person wounded, sending shockwaves through the busy College Street corridor.
According to the New Haven Police Department (NHPD), officers assigned to the overnight bar detail heard multiple gunshots around 2:52 a.m. on College Street between Crown and Chapel Streets. When officers ran toward the gunfire, they found an unresponsive male lying in the street with multiple gunshot wounds.
The victim was later identified as Dillon Cornelius, 18, of West Haven. Police say officers immediately rendered aid until emergency responders arrived. Cornelius was rushed to Yale New Haven Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. His family has been notified.
Second Victim Injured
At about 3:12 a.m., police reported that a second gunshot victim, a 23-year-old man from Hamden, arrived at Yale New Haven Hospital with a graze wound. His injuries were determined to be non-life-threatening. He told investigators he had been downtown when he was struck by gunfire. Authorities said no connection has been confirmed between the two victims at this time.
Evidence and Crime Scene
A large crime scene was established along College Street as investigators collected evidence. Numerous shell casings were recovered, and police confirmed that several vehicles and nearby businesses sustained damage from gunfire.
Detectives with the NHPD’s Major Crimes Division are actively working the case and reviewing surveillance video from surrounding businesses and traffic cameras.
Community Concerns
The shooting occurred in one of New Haven’s busiest nightlife areas, home to restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. The violence has rattled residents and raised concerns about public safety in a district that draws thousands of people each weekend.
“This is a tragic loss for the family of a young man who should have had his future ahead of him,” one resident told local media, reflecting the community’s growing frustration with gun violence.
Police Call for Witnesses
Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has surveillance footage to contact detectives at 203-946-6304. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the department’s tip line at 866-888-TIPS (8477).
As of Sunday evening, no arrests have been announced. The investigation remains ongoing.