HARLEM, NEW YORK – A community in Harlem is in mourning after the tragic death of a beloved grandmother, who was struck by a stray bullet during a violent altercation between two groups. The NYPD has apprehended a 23-year-old man in connection with the incident, bringing a glimmer of hope for justice to the neighborhood.
The victim, 61-year-old Xenia Met, affectionately known as “Mama Z,” was a cherished figure in her community. Her life was cut short last Tuesday when she was fatally hit by a bullet while rushing out of a beauty salon on West 113th Street and Lenox Avenue. The incident unfolded just a short distance from the local police precinct, underscoring the proximity of violence to the heart of the community.
The suspect, Rickey Shelby, turned himself in to authorities early this morning. His arrest follows the capture of another individual, Darius Smith, who was taken into custody last week. Both men are facing a range of charges, including murder, as the investigation continues to unravel the events of that fateful day.
Video footage from the scene reveals a chaotic shootout, with two groups exchanging gunfire and bystanders scrambling for safety. In the midst of the chaos, Met acted instinctively to ensure the safety of her grandson, a testament to her protective nature. Though her grandson was not involved in the incident and was at home at the time, the loss has deeply affected him and the community.
Met’s grandson, along with many others, attended a vigil to honor her memory. Described as a “jack of all trades” and someone who would selflessly help others, her presence was a cornerstone for those who knew her. “She kept me on my toes,” her grandson reflected, capturing the essence of a woman who was integral to the lives of many.
As the community grapples with this senseless act of violence, the growing memorial at the site of the shooting serves as a poignant reminder of the life and legacy of Mama Z. Her tragic death has sparked conversations about safety and the need for peace in neighborhoods frequently touched by violence.
The NYPD continues to investigate the incident, seeking to piece together the motives and circumstances that led to the shootout. Meanwhile, the community holds onto the memory of Mama Z, whose life was a beacon of love and protection for those around her.