Tragic Shooting on Smith Street: 10-Year-Old Child Critically Injured After Home Shot Multiple Times

Tragic Shooting on Smith Street: 10-Year-Old Child Critically Injured After Home Shot Multiple Times

Smith Street, Rochester, NY — A wave of shock and heartbreak has gripped the Rochester community after a horrifying act of violence left a 10-year-old child fighting for his life. The young boy was shot multiple times late Monday night after gunfire erupted outside his family’s home on Smith Street, according to Rochester Police. The incident occurred just before midnight, sending fear and chaos rippling through the neighborhood.

Authorities report that unknown individuals fired numerous rounds into the residence from outside, with several bullets piercing walls and windows and striking the young boy inside. He was reportedly sitting in the living room at the time of the shooting. The child sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his upper body and was immediately rushed to Strong Memorial Hospital, where he remains in critical condition as of early Tuesday morning.

Neighbors described hearing a series of rapid gunshots followed by screams. One resident, who asked not to be named, said, “It was terrifying. I heard at least ten shots. Then I heard the mother crying and yelling for help. It was something you never forget.”

Emergency responders arrived swiftly on the scene, and a heavy police presence has remained in the area overnight as investigators worked to collect evidence and interview potential witnesses. Smith Street was cordoned off between Avenue A and Avenue B as crime scene technicians marked shell casings and inspected the bullet-ridden façade of the home.

Rochester Police Chief David Smith addressed the media around 4 a.m., expressing both outrage and sorrow. “This was a senseless act of violence that injured an innocent child in the safety of his own home. We are doing everything possible to bring those responsible to justice. No child should ever have to endure something like this.”

Officials have not yet released the child’s name, out of respect for the family’s privacy. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and it is not yet known if the home or its occupants were targeted intentionally or if this was a case of mistaken identity.

News10NBC is following this developing story closely and will have live updates at the top of every half hour through 7 a.m. Anchors will provide continuing coverage on the child’s condition, law enforcement’s investigation, and the community’s response.

City leaders and activists have spoken out, calling for an end to the gun violence plaguing Rochester’s neighborhoods. Mayor Malik Evans issued a statement early Tuesday morning: “My heart is with the young victim and his family. We must do more to protect our children. The violence must stop.”

In response to the shooting, community organizations are planning a vigil on Smith Street for Tuesday evening at 7 p.m. Local clergy, neighbors, and anti-violence advocates are expected to gather in solidarity and prayer.

As the investigation continues, police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 585-423-9300. There is no room for silence in the face of violence that threatens the safety and future of our children.