Images of heartbreaking violence and tragedy in the Bronx’s 46th Precinct in 2024 reveal the devastating impact of crime on innocent victims and their families.
From a hardworking fruit stand seller fatally beaten to an innocent bystander stabbed to death, the precinct saw a surge in homicides and shootings, leaving locals fearful and calling for more police resources.
One victim, Ronald Gomez-Mesa, was attacked and killed in a senseless act of violence, leaving his family shattered and questioning their safety in their own neighborhood.
With crime rates rising in the area, concerns about safety and the need for increased police presence have been raised by both residents and officials.
The tragic stories of those lost to violence in the 46th Precinct serve as a stark reminder of the toll that crime takes on communities and the urgent need for action to address the root causes and prevent further loss of life.
Last month, Mayor Eric Adams introduced a pilot program called “Every Block Counts,” which focuses on deploying multi-agency resources to specific streets in Brooklyn’s 73rd Precinct and the Bronx’s 46th Precinct, areas with the highest number of shootings in the city.
The city administration reported that since the program’s launch in October, there have been no shootings or shots fired incidents on three Bronx thoroughfares – Morris Avenue, Elm Place, and Walton Avenue. This is a significant improvement compared to four such incidents in 2023.
Despite the program’s efforts, a Bronx police officer expressed skepticism about its effectiveness in curbing gang-related violence that has plagued the area for decades. He criticized politicians for making promises of change without tangible results.
The NYPD spokesperson mentioned that officers are conducting enhanced patrols in high-crime areas within the precinct through precision policing. In the 46th Precinct, specific crime reduction zones have been identified for targeted patrols to address violence and disorder.
The NYPD has also increased efforts to apprehend alleged perpetrators, resulting in a 163.6% increase in homicide arrests in the 46th Precinct. Overall arrests have also risen by 19.4%. However, despite these measures, local residents still feel unsafe due to the ongoing violence.
Gabby Almonte, a resident visiting Mount Hope, described the situation as “really, really bad,” expressing concerns about personal safety while walking in the neighborhood.
Additional reporting by Dorian Geiger and Craig McCarthy.
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