BUFFALO, N.Y. — Crimestoppers WNY announced Thursday it is offering up to $2,500 for information that leads to the arrest of the event promoter Buffalo police say organized a series of violent gatherings early on July 5 that resulted in multiple shootings across the city.
Who authorities are seeking
Police have identified the promoter as Daevon Alexander, wanted in connection with the shootings. Buffalo Police say Alexander is connected to a planned “street takeover” that culminated in gunfire on several blocks. Authorities describe him as 6 feet, 1 inch tall and weighing about 185 pounds.
“This event was a planned 'street takeover' organized by a party promoter,” Buffalo Police Commissioner Erika Shields told reporters, according to the department.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crimestoppers WNY at 716-867-6161 or submit tips through the Crimestoppers app.
What happened in the early hours of July 5
Buffalo police report there were six separate shooting incidents across the city on the morning of July 5. In total, investigators say 11 people were struck by gunfire. One of the events took place on Stevens Avenue around 12:15 a.m., where four people were shot.
- Number of shooting incidents: 6
- Total people shot: 11
- Stevens Avenue shooting time: ~12:15 a.m., July 5
- Reward offered: Up to $2,500
| Detail | Reported figure |
|---|---|
| Shooting incidents | 6 |
| People shot | 11 |
| Victims on Stevens Ave | 4 |
| Reward | $2,500 |
Police Commissioner Erika Shields and investigators have characterized the gatherings as organized. The department has been working to identify those responsible for planning and promoting the events in order to hold organizers accountable as well as the shooters themselves.
The Crimestoppers reward is intended to encourage community members with knowledge about the promoter’s identity, whereabouts or role in arranging the gatherings to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously.
Local officials have emphasized the strain such episodes place on neighborhoods and emergency services. Residents directly affected by the shootings have voiced concerns about safety in the days since, and community leaders continue to call for coordinated prevention efforts that address both events and illegal gunfire.
Anyone with information is urged to call 716-867-6161 or use the Crimestoppers app. Police say tips that lead to an arrest may qualify for the announced reward.
