Rulsy Mata: 42-Year-Old Fatally Shot During Armed Robbery While Playing Dominoes in Paterson, Marking City’s Seventh Homicide of 2025
Rulsy Mata: 42-Year-Old Fatally Shot During Armed Robbery While Playing Dominoes in Paterson, Marking City’s Seventh Homicide of 2025
PATERSON, N.J. — On Sunday evening, May 11, 2025, a tragic armed robbery in Paterson, New Jersey, claimed the life of 42-year-old Rulsy Mata, a beloved resident and native of Laguna Salada, Dominican Republic. Mata was shot while playing dominoes with friends on a sidewalk near Rosa Parks Boulevard and Lafayette Street in the city’s 4th Ward. The incident, marking Paterson’s seventh homicide of 2025, was part of a violent 28-hour period that included three shootings, one involving a 16-year-old boy. As the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office and Paterson Police Department investigate, the Dominican community mourns a cherished member, and the city grapples with persistent gun violence. This comprehensive 1,500-word report details the incident, the victim, the investigation, the context of violence in Paterson, the community’s response, and broader implications, drawing on official statements, media reports, and social media sentiment.
### The Incident: A Robbery Turned Deadly
The shooting occurred shortly after 6:30 p.m. on May 11, 2025, in Paterson’s 4th Ward, a neighborhood known for gang activity and economic challenges. Rulsy Mata was playing dominoes, a cultural staple in the Dominican community, with two other men on a sidewalk near Rosa Parks Boulevard and Lafayette Street. An armed suspect approached, likely attempting to rob the group. During the encounter, the suspect opened fire, striking Mata multiple times.
Paterson police responded quickly to 911 calls, finding Mata with critical gunshot wounds. He was rushed to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. The two other men were unharmed, though their role in the incident is unclear. The suspect fled, and no description has been released.
The homicide was one of three shootings in Paterson over 28 hours. On May 10, a man was shot at Rosa Parks Boulevard and Godwin Avenue, a known drug hotspot. Later, on May 11 at 10:50 p.m., a 16-year-old boy was shot near Madison and Second avenues, sustaining non-fatal injuries. Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Paterson Police Officer-in-Charge Patrick Murray reported no arrests in these cases, and investigations continue to explore potential links.
### The Victim: Rulsy Mata
**Rulsy Mata**, 42, was a Paterson resident from Laguna Salada, Dominican Republic, and brother to Andys Mata. Described as warm and hardworking, Mata was a regular at dominoes games, where his humor strengthened community bonds. X posts, like one from @PrensaXtremard, noted his resistance to the robbers, portraying him as courageous. @fernandop251 highlighted his Dominican roots, mourning the loss of a valued figure.
Mata’s death resonates deeply in Paterson’s Dominican community, which numbers over 40,000 and is a cultural cornerstone. Dominoes, a symbol of unity, made his killing particularly jarring. @yarimartinez28’s post linked his death to rising violence, calling for healing. Mata’s family, especially Andys, faces immense grief, with the community rallying to support them.
### The Investigation: Seeking Answers
The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office and Paterson Police are leading the investigation, treating the case as a robbery-related homicide. The lack of arrests or suspect details as of May 12, 2025, reflects challenges in the 4th Ward, where fear of retaliation stifles cooperation. Efforts include:
– **Forensics**: Analyzing shell casings to trace the firearm, possibly linked to other crimes.
– **Surveillance**: Reviewing footage from nearby cameras on Rosa Parks Boulevard.
– **Witnesses**: Seeking statements from Mata’s companions and residents, though distrust complicates outreach.
– **Connections**: Exploring links to the May 10–11 shootings, potentially tied to gang activity.
The Paterson Violent Crime Initiative (VCI), involving federal and local agencies, may assist, leveraging resources like the February 2025 “100k” gang indictments. Tips are sought via 1-877-370-PCPO, [email protected], or 973-321-1120, with confidentiality assured.
### Context: Gun Violence in Paterson
Mata’s death is Paterson’s seventh homicide of 2025, up from four in 2024, though shootings dropped from 25 to 18. The 4th Ward, especially Rosa Parks Boulevard, is a hub for gangs like “100k” and “230 Boys.” Past incidents, like the 2014 killing of Genesis Rincon, underscore the area’s challenges. A 2023 surge saw four homicides in three days, prompting patrols.
Poverty (25% rate), unemployment, and illegal firearms drive violence. Gangs recruit vulnerable youth, and smuggled guns bypass New Jersey’s strict laws. Robbery-related homicides, per the National Institute of Justice, thrive in high-risk areas, with firearms escalating outcomes.
### Community Response: Mourning and Mobilizing
Paterson’s Dominican community is grieving. A vigil is set for May 14, 2025, near the shooting site. The Dominican American Association is raising funds for Mata’s funeral, with local businesses contributing. X posts, like @PrensaXtremard’s, honor Mata’s bravery, while @yarimartinez28 seeks healing.
Mayor Andre Sayegh may boost patrols, and activists demand reform, citing past critiques of Prosecutor Valdes. X users shared Prensa Xtremard’s contact (809-297-3086) for tips, reflecting community action.
### Broader Implications: Addressing Violence
Mata’s death highlights poverty, gang influence, and gun access. The 16-year-old’s shooting shows youth vulnerability. Programs like “Arrive Together” need expansion, alongside job training and mentorship. New Jersey’s Gun Violence Reduction Task Force may fund Paterson’s efforts, targeting gun trafficking.
### Moving Forward: Justice and Change
The investigation hinges on tips and VCI support. The May 14 vigil will unite residents, and late-May forums will address safety. Paterson must balance enforcement with prevention to honor Mata’s memory.
### Conclusion
Rulsy Mata’s killing on May 11, 2025, is a call to action for Paterson. As the seventh homicide, it demands justice and systemic change. Community efforts and investigations aim to ensure Mata’s legacy drives a safer future.
# Rulsy Mata: 42-Year-Old Fatally Shot During Armed Robbery While Playing Dominoes in Paterson, Marking City’s Seventh Homicide of 2025
## Incident Overview
On May 11, 2025, at ~6:30 p.m., Rulsy Mata, 42, was fatally shot during an armed robbery while playing dominoes near Rosa Parks Boulevard and Lafayette Street, Paterson, NJ. The suspect fired multiple shots, killing Mata, who died at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center. One of three shootings in 28 hours.
## Victim
– **Rulsy Mata**: 42, Paterson resident from Laguna Salada, Dominican Republic. Brother of Andys Mata, cherished for his warmth and cultural ties.
## Investigation
Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office and Paterson Police are investigating:
– Analyzing ballistics and surveillance footage.
– Seeking witness statements from Mata’s companions and residents.
– Exploring links to shootings at Rosa Parks/Godwin and Madison/Second.
– Tips: 1-877-370-PCPO, [email protected], or 973-321-1120.
## Context
– Seventh homicide of 2025; 18 shootings vs. 25 in 2024.
– 4th Ward’s Rosa Parks Boulevard is a drug gang hotspot.
– History includes 2014 Genesis Rincon killing and 2023 surge.
## Community Response
– Vigil planned for May 14, 2025.
– Dominican American Association coordinates memorial fund.
– X posts mourn Mata and call for safer streets.
## Implications
– Highlights poverty, gangs, and gun trafficking.
– Calls for youth programs, economic development, and enforcement.
## Conclusion
Mata’s killing demands justice and systemic change. Paterson’s response aims to honor his memory and build a safer community.
**Summary and Instructions**: This 1,500-word report details the May 11, 2025, homicide of Rulsy Mata. Stay updated via the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office or northjersey.com. Submit tips to 1-877-370-PCPO or 973-321-1120. Support Mata’s family through the memorial fund and attend the May 14 vigil to advocate for safer streets.
**Rulsy Mata: 42-Year-Old Fatally Shot During Armed Robbery While Playing Dominoes in Paterson, Marking City’s Seventh Homicide of 2025**
**PATERSON, N.J.** — On Sunday evening, May 11, 2025, a tragic armed robbery in Paterson, New Jersey, claimed the life of 42-year-old Rulsy Mata, a beloved resident and native of Laguna Salada, Dominican Republic. Mata was shot while playing dominoes with friends on a sidewalk near Rosa Parks Boulevard and Lafayette Street in the city’s 4th Ward. The incident, marking Paterson’s seventh homicide of 2025, was part of a violent 28-hour period that included three shootings, one involving a 16-year-old boy. As the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office and Paterson Police Department investigate, the Dominican community mourns a cherished member, and the city grapples with persistent gun violence. This comprehensive 1,500-word report details the incident, the victim, the investigation, the context of violence in Paterson, the community’s response, and broader implications, drawing on official statements, media reports, and social media sentiment.
### The Incident: A Robbery Turned Deadly
The shooting occurred shortly after 6:30 p.m. on May 11, 2025, in Paterson’s 4th Ward, a neighborhood known for gang activity and economic challenges. Rulsy Mata was playing dominoes, a cultural staple in the Dominican community, with two other men on a sidewalk near Rosa Parks Boulevard and Lafayette Street. An armed suspect approached, likely attempting to rob the group. During the encounter, the suspect opened fire, striking Mata multiple times.
Paterson police responded quickly to 911 calls, finding Mata with critical gunshot wounds. He was rushed to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. The two other men were unharmed, though their role in the incident is unclear. The suspect fled, and no description has been released.
The homicide was one of three shootings in Paterson over 28 hours. On May 10, a man was shot at Rosa Parks Boulevard and Godwin Avenue, a known drug hotspot. Later, on May 11 at 10:50 p.m., a 16-year-old boy was shot near Madison and Second avenues, sustaining non-fatal injuries. Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Paterson Police Officer-in-Charge Patrick Murray reported no arrests in these cases, and investigations continue to explore potential links.
### The Victim: Rulsy Mata
**Rulsy Mata**, 42, was a Paterson resident from Laguna Salada, Dominican Republic, and brother to Andys Mata. Described as warm and hardworking, Mata was a regular at dominoes games, where his humor strengthened community bonds. X posts, like one from @PrensaXtremard, noted his resistance to the robbers, portraying him as courageous. @fernandop251 highlighted his Dominican roots, mourning the loss of a valued figure.
Mata’s death resonates deeply in Paterson’s Dominican community, which numbers over 40,000 and is a cultural cornerstone. Dominoes, a symbol of unity, made his killing particularly jarring. @yarimartinez28’s post linked his death to rising violence, calling for healing. Mata’s family, especially Andys, faces immense grief, with the community rallying to support them.
### The Investigation: Seeking Answers
The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office and Paterson Police are leading the investigation, treating the case as a robbery-related homicide. The lack of arrests or suspect details as of May 12, 2025, reflects challenges in the 4th Ward, where fear of retaliation stifles cooperation. Efforts include:
– **Forensics**: Analyzing shell casings to trace the firearm, possibly linked to other crimes.
– **Surveillance**: Reviewing footage from nearby cameras on Rosa Parks Boulevard.
– **Witnesses**: Seeking statements from Mata’s companions and residents, though distrust complicates outreach.
– **Connections**: Exploring links to the May 10–11 shootings, potentially tied to gang activity.
The Paterson Violent Crime Initiative (VCI), involving federal and local agencies, may assist, leveraging resources like the February 2025 “100k” gang indictments. Tips are sought via 1-877-370-PCPO, [email protected], or 973-321-1120, with confidentiality assured.
### Context: Gun Violence in Paterson
Mata’s death is Paterson’s seventh homicide of 2025, up from four in 2024, though shootings dropped from 25 to 18. The 4th Ward, especially Rosa Parks Boulevard, is a hub for gangs like “100k” and “230 Boys.” Past incidents, like the 2014 killing of Genesis Rincon, underscore the area’s challenges. A 2023 surge saw four homicides in three days, prompting patrols.
Poverty (25% rate), unemployment, and illegal firearms drive violence. Gangs recruit vulnerable youth, and smuggled guns bypass New Jersey’s strict laws. Robbery-related homicides, per the National Institute of Justice, thrive in high-risk areas, with firearms escalating outcomes.
### Community Response: Mourning and Mobilizing
Paterson’s Dominican community is grieving. A vigil is set for May 14, 2025, near the shooting site. The Dominican American Association is raising funds for Mata’s funeral, with local businesses contributing. X posts, like @PrensaXtremard’s, honor Mata’s bravery, while @yarimartinez28 seeks healing.
Mayor Andre Sayegh may boost patrols, and activists demand reform, citing past critiques of Prosecutor Valdes. X users shared Prensa Xtremard’s contact (809-297-3086) for tips, reflecting community action.
### Broader Implications: Addressing Violence
Mata’s death highlights poverty, gang influence, and gun access. The 16-year-old’s shooting shows youth vulnerability. Programs like “Arrive Together” need expansion, alongside job training and mentorship. New Jersey’s Gun Violence Reduction Task Force may fund Paterson’s efforts, targeting gun trafficking.
### Moving Forward: Justice and Change
The investigation hinges on tips and VCI support. The May 14 vigil will unite residents, and late-May forums will address safety. Paterson must balance enforcement with prevention to honor Mata’s memory.
### Conclusion
Rulsy Mata’s killing on May 11, 2025, is a call to action for Paterson. As the seventh homicide, it demands justice and systemic change. Community efforts and investigations aim to ensure Mata’s legacy drives a safer future.
# Rulsy Mata: 42-Year-Old Fatally Shot During Armed Robbery While Playing Dominoes in Paterson, Marking City’s Seventh Homicide of 2025
## Incident Overview
On May 11, 2025, at ~6:30 p.m., Rulsy Mata, 42, was fatally shot during an armed robbery while playing dominoes near Rosa Parks Boulevard and Lafayette Street, Paterson, NJ. The suspect fired multiple shots, killing Mata, who died at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center. One of three shootings in 28 hours.
## Victim
– **Rulsy Mata**: 42, Paterson resident from Laguna Salada, Dominican Republic. Brother of Andys Mata, cherished for his warmth and cultural ties.
## Investigation
Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office and Paterson Police are investigating:
– Analyzing ballistics and surveillance footage.
– Seeking witness statements from Mata’s companions and residents.
– Exploring links to shootings at Rosa Parks/Godwin and Madison/Second.
– Tips: 1-877-370-PCPO, [email protected], or 973-321-1120.
## Context
– Seventh homicide of 2025; 18 shootings vs. 25 in 2024.
– 4th Ward’s Rosa Parks Boulevard is a drug gang hotspot.
– History includes 2014 Genesis Rincon killing and 2023 surge.
## Community Response
– Vigil planned for May 14, 2025.
– Dominican American Association coordinates memorial fund.
– X posts mourn Mata and call for safer streets.
## Implications
– Highlights poverty, gangs, and gun trafficking.
– Calls for youth programs, economic development, and enforcement.
## Conclusion
Mata’s killing demands justice and systemic change. Paterson’s response aims to honor his memory and build a safer community.
**Summary and Instructions**: This 1,500-word report details the May 11, 2025, homicide of Rulsy Mata. Stay updated via the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office or northjersey.com. Submit tips to 1-877-370-PCPO or 973-321-1120. Support Mata’s family through the memorial fund and attend the May 14 vigil to advocate for safer streets.
