ARREST MADE IN SYRACUSE TRIPLE CHILD SHOOTING ON CITY’S NORTHSIDE

ARREST MADE IN SYRACUSE TRIPLE CHILD SHOOTING ON CITY’S NORTHSIDE

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — June 27, 2025 — The Syracuse Police Department has announced a significant development in a tragic shooting incident that left three children injured earlier this month. Authorities have arrested 18-year-old Nakise Elliot, charging him with multiple serious felonies in connection to the brazen act of violence that rocked a Northside neighborhood.

According to police, Elliot has been formally charged with:

• Attempted Murder in the Second Degree
• Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree

The arrest follows an intense investigation by the Syracuse Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division, who worked tirelessly to identify and locate the suspect responsible for opening fire on a group of children.

Details of the Incident

The shooting occurred earlier in June on Syracuse’s northside, though the exact date and location have not yet been publicly confirmed by police due to the ongoing nature of the investigation. What has been confirmed, however, is that three children — all under the age of 15 — were shot and injured in the attack.

Emergency responders arrived quickly on the scene and transported all three victims to a local hospital. Fortunately, none of the injuries were fatal, and all three children are currently in recovery. Their identities are being withheld due to their age and in respect for their privacy.

Investigators believe that the children were not the intended targets of the gunfire, and that the shooting was the result of a targeted dispute that escalated to indiscriminate violence.

Suspect in Custody

Elliot was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held at the Onondaga County Justice Center, pending arraignment. Syracuse Police have not released details regarding a possible motive, nor have they stated whether additional arrests are expected. They have confirmed, however, that the investigation is far from over.

Community Reaction and Police Statement

The arrest has been met with a mixture of relief and continued concern in the community, where residents have become increasingly alarmed by recent violence involving minors.

In a statement, Syracuse Police Chief Joe Cecile commended the work of investigators and called the incident “deeply troubling.”

“This was a senseless and cowardly act that left three innocent children wounded. The arrest of Nakise Elliot is an important step in our pursuit of justice, but we are not done. We will continue our work until everyone responsible is held accountable.”

Cecile also reiterated the department’s commitment to community safety and encouraged residents to come forward with any information that might help strengthen the case.

Call for Public Assistance

Syracuse Police urge anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or has additional information to contact the SPD Criminal Investigations Division at (315) 442-5222. Tips can also be submitted anonymously via Syracuse Crime Stoppers at (315) 442-8477 or online.

Ongoing Violence Sparks Concern

This latest incident adds to growing concerns about gun violence involving youth in the city. Community leaders and local organizations have reiterated the need for more intervention programs, youth outreach, and resources to prevent tragedies like this from recurring.

Local advocates plan to hold a vigil and community forum in the coming days to support the families affected and to discuss solutions to reduce gun violence in Syracuse neighborhoods.

As the investigation continues, the community awaits answers, and the focus remains on ensuring the safety of the city’s most vulnerable residents — its children.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as they become available.