Crime
Schenectady High School 9th grader 15-year-old Dubar Knowles killed in shooting
UPDATE: Schenectady Police have identified the 15-year-old homicide victim from last night’s shooting on Congress Street as Dubar T. Knowles, of Schenectady.
The 13-year-old female victim is also from Schenectady and is currently recovering from surgery at a local hospital for a gunshot wound.
She is in stable condition.
Medina Knowles, the sister of the victim in this case, was tragically murdered by her then-20-year-old boyfriend, Raekwon Stover, in September 2016. Stover, who was dating the 17-year-old Medina, coerced her into prostitution, forcing her to engage in sexual acts for money.
When Medina refused to continue this harmful and exploitative behavior, prosecutors allege that Stover became enraged. In a violent act committed in front of Medina’s young son and siblings, Stover fatally shot her in the head.
This horrific incident highlights the devastating consequences of human trafficking and the importance of raising awareness about this serious issue.
ORIGINAL REPORT:
On the evening of October 12, 2024, at approximately 11:20pm, Schenectady police officers responded to the 1100 block of Congress Street for multiple reports of shots fired.
Upon arrival, officers observed a large crowd running from the area and located a 15-year-old male in the backyard of 1122 Congress Street, suffering from a gunshot wound to his torso.
While investigating, officers were made aware of an additional victim from the incident several blocks away, on Chrisler Avenue.
There they located a 13-year-old female suffering from a gunshot wound to her head/neck area.
Both victims were assisted by the Schenectady Fire Department and brought to area hospitals.
The 15-year-old male victim has died at the hospital from his injuries and the 13-year-old female victim is currently in stable condition and receiving treatment.
Through the preliminary investigation, it appears the victims and multiple other juveniles were attending a party at 1122 Congress Street when the suspect, or suspects, began shooting.
At this time, Schenectady police detectives and investigators from the New York State Police are actively investigating the incident.
There is currently no one in custody. Detectives are asking for
the public’s assistance in this investigation and those with information are asked to call our Tips Line at: 518-788-6566.
Authorities are currently investigating a double homicide at the Brighton Community Center, located at 3810 7th Avenue in Bessemer, Alabama.
Multiple law enforcement agencies have responded to the scene to assist with the investigation.
Details surrounding the incident remain limited at this time, and authorities have not yet released information about the victims or any potential suspects.
Investigators are working diligently to gather evidence and interview witnesses to determine the circumstances leading to the tragic event.
Residents in the area are urged to remain cautious and report any information that may assist law enforcement in their investigation.
Anyone with details about the incident is encouraged to contact the Bessemer Police Department or submit a tip anonymously through local crime-stopper programs.