From city Communications Director Brett Broesder:
Detectives are investigating a homicide that occurred in the city’s North End today.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family,” said Mayor Bill Finch. “Violence is at the lowest level in 40 years in Bridgeport. That doesn’t make today any easier for the community or for me. A man senselessly lost his life, and detectives are working nonstop to find the person responsible.”
The killing was the second homicide in 2015. Violent crime in Bridgeport has decreased by approximately 15 percent in 2015 compared to the same time period in 2014.
Overall, the city continues to see a steady decrease in crime.
When compared to similar sized cities in New England, Bridgeport has seen the largest decrease in violent crime over the past decade, according to Rhode Island based WPRI.
Based on the initial investigation, a masked male wearing a dark grey or black hooded sweatshirt and tan-colored camouflage pants entered T. Market at 1482 Reservoir Ave. and fired multiple shots at an employee, striking him once. He was transported to Saint Vincent’s Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.
The suspect was last seen running on Trumbull Ave toward Fiske Avenue.
Detectives remain at the scene and are working to secure video of the incident.
The victim has been identified as Hakeem Joseph 32, of Bridgeport, who works at the business.
Police responded to the location at 8 a.m. on a report of shots fired. The circumstance surrounding the incident remain under investigation.
What a sad waste. I have patronized this place for breakfast on occasion. The lack of respect for life is beyond me. My thoughts and prayers for the family and friends of the victim.
I am certain Bridgeport’s Finest will capture this disgusting creature and bring him/her to justice.