Jersey City, NJ – A tragic shooting on Friday night has claimed the life of 20-year-old Rahmiere Morris, sending shockwaves through the local community and prompting an intensive investigation by the Jersey City Police Department. The incident occurred near Lembeck Avenue and Old Bergen Road, an area that, while typically quiet, has recently seen a troubling increase in violent crime.

Authorities reported that Rahmiere Morris was found at approximately 8:30 p.m. with a gunshot wound to the torso. Despite immediate medical attention and his swift transport to Jersey City Medical Center, Morris was pronounced dead at 9:35 p.m., marking yet another heartbreaking loss of a young life to gun violence.

The Incident: A Timeline of Events

According to eyewitness accounts and police reports, the shooting occurred just after sunset on Friday, January 5. Residents in the area reported hearing multiple gunshots, followed by the sound of people shouting and fleeing the scene. Police officers responded to a 911 call at approximately 8:30 p.m., arriving to find Morris lying on the pavement, bleeding from a single gunshot wound to the torso.

Eyewitnesses describe a chaotic scene in the moments following the shooting. “I heard about three or four shots, and then everything went quiet,” said a local resident who asked not to be named. “When I looked outside, I saw someone lying on the ground, and a group of people running away. It’s terrifying to think this happened right outside my home.”

Paramedics arrived within minutes and provided emergency care before transporting Morris to Jersey City Medical Center. Despite their efforts, doctors were unable to save him, and he was pronounced dead just over an hour after the shooting.

A Community in Mourning

The death of Rahmiere Morris has left the Jersey City community reeling. Friends and family described Morris as a kind-hearted young man with a bright future ahead of him. Known for his infectious smile and his love of basketball, Morris had dreams of pursuing a career in the trades and was actively working toward building a stable life for himself and his family.

“He was just starting to figure out his path,” said his cousin, Tiana Williams. “Rahmiere was such a good kid. He didn’t deserve this. No one does.”

Community leaders have echoed these sentiments, expressing outrage and sadness over the senseless loss of another young life. Pastor Jonathan Reid of a nearby church called for unity and action, saying, “This violence has to stop. We are losing our future—our sons, our daughters—because of guns and unresolved conflicts. Rahmiere’s death should serve as a wake-up call for all of us.”

The Investigation

The Jersey City Police Department has launched a full-scale investigation into the shooting. Detectives are currently reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and homes, as well as speaking with witnesses who may have seen or heard something that could shed light on the incident.

Police have not yet identified a suspect or a motive in the case. However, sources within the department have indicated that the shooting may have been targeted, based on the location of the gunshot wound and the trajectory of the bullet.

“It’s still early in the investigation, but we’re following up on all leads,” said Captain Andrew Rodriguez of the Jersey City Police Department. “Our priority is to find out who is responsible for Rahmiere’s death and to ensure they are held accountable.”

The area near Lembeck Avenue and Old Bergen Road has been cordoned off as a crime scene, with officers conducting thorough searches for evidence. Items such as spent shell casings, personal belongings, and possible fingerprints are being analyzed by forensic teams.

Calls for Justice

The shooting has sparked renewed calls for stronger measures to combat gun violence in Jersey City. Activists and community members gathered at the scene of the shooting on Saturday for a candlelight vigil in honor of Rahmiere Morris.

“We cannot allow this to become our new normal,” said local activist Maria Lopez. “Rahmiere’s life mattered, and we owe it to him and his family to fight for a safer community. This means addressing not just the symptoms of violence but the root causes—poverty, lack of opportunities, and the easy access to guns.”

Councilwoman Angela Martin, who represents the district where the shooting occurred, issued a statement calling for immediate action. “This tragic loss highlights the urgent need for comprehensive gun control measures and increased community resources. We must work together to ensure that no more lives are cut short by senseless violence.”

Family Speaks Out

Morris’ family has been vocal in their grief, calling for anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. His mother, Latoya Morris, spoke tearfully at the vigil, holding a picture of her son.

“I don’t know how I’m supposed to move on without my baby,” she said. “He didn’t deserve this. If you know something, please, please say something. Don’t let whoever did this get away with it.”

Rahmiere’s older brother, Marcus Morris, echoed these sentiments, urging the community to support the investigation. “We can’t bring Rahmiere back, but we can make sure his killer doesn’t get the chance to hurt anyone else. If you know anything, no matter how small, please come forward.”

The Broader Impact of Gun Violence

Rahmiere’s death is the latest in a string of shootings that have plagued Jersey City in recent months. Data from the Jersey City Police Department shows a troubling uptick in gun violence, with the number of shootings in the city rising by nearly 15% compared to the previous year.

Experts point to a combination of factors contributing to this increase, including economic challenges, gang activity, and the proliferation of illegal firearms. Community leaders and activists have called for a multi-faceted approach to addressing these issues, emphasizing the need for preventative measures alongside law enforcement efforts.

Remembering Rahmiere Morris

As the investigation continues, those who knew and loved Rahmiere are focusing on keeping his memory alive. Plans are underway to establish a scholarship fund in his name, aimed at helping other young people in Jersey City pursue their dreams.

“Rahmiere was always looking out for others,” said his former basketball coach, Derrick Johnson. “This scholarship is our way of honoring his legacy and making sure his kindness and generosity live on.”

A memorial service for Rahmiere will be held later this week, with family, friends, and community members expected to attend.

What’s Next?

The Jersey City Police Department has pledged to keep the public updated on the progress of the investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact the department directly or to submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

In the meantime, the community remains united in its grief and its determination to seek justice for Rahmiere Morris. His death is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence and the urgent need for collective action to prevent further tragedies.

Rahmiere’s story is one of a life filled with promise, cut tragically short. As Jersey City mourns his loss, it also stands resolute in its commitment to ensuring that his death is not in vain.