Yasean J. McQueen, 31 — Elmira Mourns Loss of Community Member After Deadly Pulaski Park Shooting

ELMIRA, NY — In the wake of a tragic and violent incident that unfolded on the evening of Monday, June 9, 2025, the Elmira community remains both stunned and deeply saddened. What should have been a peaceful evening in Pulaski Park took a devastating turn when 31-year-old Yasean J. McQueen, a familiar face to many, was fatally shot. Another individual also sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical care. The Elmira Police Department is leading an intensive criminal investigation, as the community rallies for answers, safety, and healing.

Evening in the Park Turns Deadly

Just as dusk settled over Pulaski Park, what began as a typical summer evening—families relaxing, children playing, joggers winding down after work—was shattered by gunfire that echoed through the park’s leafy paths. The first calls to 911 dispatchers came shortly after 7:30 p.m., reporting multiple shots near the playground. The police and EMS responded rapidly; officers arrived within minutes to discover an atmosphere of chaos and shock.

They found Yasean J. McQueen, 31, critically wounded and unresponsive. Nearby lay another adult, injured, but still alive. Emergency personnel administered immediate aid. Despite the heroic efforts of EMS crews, Yasean was pronounced dead at the scene. The second victim was transported to Elmira General Hospital and, according to the latest updates, is currently in critical condition. The gravity of the situation struck the hearts of residents when the news spread: a life had been lost at this beloved public space.

Investigation Launches with Urgency

By late evening, Elmira Police Chief announced that detectives had arrived to cordon off the scene and begin an exhaustive search for evidence. Officers canvassed the park joggers, cyclists, and onlookers who witnessed parts of the violent confrontation. Surveillance footage from nearby cameras—a mix of residential systems and public park monitoring—became a central element as investigators sought clarity on the timeline and participants in the shooting.

Early findings have not confirmed whether the park incident was targeted or random, nor have police determined if the park was the intended location of the confrontation. Hypotheses include an altercation that occurred elsewhere and resulted in retaliation here, or an argument among acquaintances that escalated into gun violence. Elmira PD is appealing to anyone with information—no matter how seemingly small—to come forward.

The Victim: Life and Legacy of a 31-Year-Old Resident

Yasean J. McQueen was more than a statistic in a tragic headline—he was known and loved in Elmira. Colleagues describe him as warm-hearted and reliable, someone who always greeted people with a sincere smile. Neighbors recall him engaging with community cleanups and participating in local recreate-and-learn events at Pulaski Park on weekends. To younger residents, he was a mentor figure, often seen helping with youth soccer or volunteering his time.

At age 31, Yasean had already made a positive impact. He was employed at a local manufacturing plant for over six years and was known for his strong work ethic. Friends said he was planning to return to school in the fall to pursue further education. Family members recall his plans to start a small home-improvement business—an entrepreneurial dream tragically interrupted.

Injury and Aftermath: The Other Victim

The second shooting victim, approximately in their late 20s or early 30s, remains hospitalized. Their identity is being withheld while police and medical professionals ensure they can speak safely. Updates from the hospital indicate that while their condition is critical, there are signs of stabilization. Detectives hope this injured party may provide crucial testimony—identifying suspects, describing events, or providing context that could accelerate justice.

Community Response: Shock, Sadness, and Solidarity

News of the shooting spread rapidly through Elmira, prompting an outpouring of grief and support. Pulaski Park, once a place of relaxation and recreation, now carries reminders of tragedy. Residents gathered at the scene the following evening with candles, flowers, and handwritten notes. A temporary memorial stands near the park entrance, with messages reading, “Rest in Peace” and “Elmira stands united.”

Local leaders, faith organizations, and nonprofits held impromptu candlelight vigils. A moment of silence was observed at City Council meetings, through-shifts at city services, and even Sunday church services. In schools, especially at Elmira High, Chaplains and Counselors offered trauma-informed support to students affected by the news.

Municipal Leaders Call for Calm and Action

Mayor Amy Ternes, visibly shaken, expressed profound sorrow while addressing the tragedy publicly:

“We mourn the death of a valued member of our community. No one should feel unsafe in our parks, especially when it’s supposed to be a place of rest and enjoyment. We pledge to support the investigation, and we call on all Elmira residents to come forward with information.”

The Mayor announced that Elmira police would be increasing patrols in Pulaski Park and other public spaces. Plans for installing additional lighting, improving surveillance, and promoting community outreach programs—such as Safe Pathways for parks—are being fast-tracked.

Ongoing History of Gun Violence in the Region

Pulaski Park is not new to public safety concerns, but this deadly incident marks a brutal escalation. Over the past few years, Elmira has experienced a rise in gun-related crimes—though not at the high rates seen in larger metro areas. Still, gun-violence remains a stubborn challenge for smaller cities, often amplified by economic stress, limited social services, and easy access to firearms.

Experts emphasize that tragedies like this are rarely “random moments” but symptoms of broader societal issues—mental health crises, community disinvestment, and the ease with which ordinary moments can spill into lethal violence if left unchecked.

Community Healing: Support and Resources

Recognizing the emotional toll of the shooting, several organizations have rapidly mobilized. The Elmira-Radnew Mental Health Center set up a free helpline for anyone needing crisis support. Local clinics offer walk-in therapy for youth and families affected by the violence. Nonprofits like the Elmira Community Foundation have announced funds allocated to grief counseling and neighborhood-wide healing circles.

A park-wide Youth Outreach Program is scheduled to launch this summer, offering evening sports clinics, arts workshops, and mentoring in Pulaski Park—aimed at reclaiming the space for positive community engagement.

Search for Justice: Police Encourage Tips

The Elmira Police Department continues to rely on the public for information. Investigators are consulting with forensic teams to analyze ballistics, bullet trajectories, shell casings, and surveillance footage. While some suspects remain at large, police are optimistic that civilian tips will lead to quick arrests.

Residents are asked to report anything—strange vehicles, unusual foot traffic, or late-night noises. Confidential avenues include a crime tip line, online submission forms via the Elmira Police website, and a possible reward promoted by the police foundation for information that leads to an arrest.

Long-Term Reform: Will Wilson’s Vision for Public Safety

Councilmember Will Wilson has proposed a comprehensive plan to improve park safety, digging into concerns that graphic incidents like this erode public confidence. His recommendations include:

• Increased nighttime patrols
• Longer hours of operation with staff presence
• Emergency call boxes and onsite park management
• Monthly community-led cleanups and park stewardship campaigns

Wilson emphasized:

“This is more than policing. It’s a shared sense of ownership and pride in our public spaces. Pulaski Park should be a place of joy, not fear.”

Honest Conversations on Gun Safety and Youth Outreach

Community leaders stress this moment is also a chance to reflect on gun safety and youth connections. Churches, synagogues, and nonprofit groups are hosting ‘town meetings count’ discussions about common-sense firearm education, safe storage practices, and youth violence prevention.

Step Back Alliance, an Elmira-based social outreach group, is leading workshops on conflict resolution, peer support, and positive activism. Their motto: “Safe People Build Safe Parks.”

Academic and Youth Circle Reflection

Elmira High will hold assemblies later this week, featuring panels with school counselors, youth workers, and public safety professionals. Students are invited to submit essays and artwork reflecting on community strength and positivity as part of what they’re calling the “Reclaim Our Space” initiative.

The young people of Elmira are being given voices, spaces, and platforms to imagine a future without daily violence and to build peer-based solutions grounded in equity.

Final Reflections

Monday’s shooting in Pulaski Park is a stark reminder of how quickly destinies can shift and how public spaces—even our cherished parks—can become sites of grief. Yet, in the cracks of that grief, resilience grows. The Elmira community’s response—with compassion, cooperation, and a collective determination to heal and secure—speaks of a deeper, hopeful future.

Though the pain remains raw, the love and unity sparked by this tragedy reveal Elmira’s heart. As investigators continue to work and the community honors Yasean J. McQueen and prays for the injured party, the shared goal is clear: safety, peace, and partnership—rekindling trust in Pulaski Park and across Elmira.

If you have information related to this incident, please contact the Elmira Police Tip Line at (607) XXX-XXXX or submit it anonymously online. Let’s ensure this moment leads not just to justice, but a renewed foundation of safety and solidarity for all.