Police probe shooting of 11-year-old; shots fired

The Troy Police Department confirmed it is probing investigating a shooting that happened around 3:45 p.m. Monday on O’Neil street, in the Hills View Heights neighborhood.

Officers were dispatched to that area for a report of several shots being fired in the area of 24 O’Neil street. Police arrived quickly and found that an 11-year-old boy was struck in the back by gunfire.

The Troy Fire Department was dispatched and gave aid to the victim on the scene and then transported him to Albany Medical Center Hospital for further treatment.

“I was briefed by Troy Police [Monday] afternoon regarding the shooting incidents on O’Neil Street and 15th Streets,” Troy Mayor Patrick Madden said in a statement. “These cowardly acts have no place in our community, and Troy police will devote the resources necessary, including our law enforcement partners, to track down those responsible. Detectives continue to investigate, but I urge anyone with information to come forward.

“We need the community’s help to bring an end to these outrageous incidents. My thoughts remain with the victim and their family during this difficult time.”

Police additionally received information that a dark-colored sedan with dark windows was seen fleeing the area at a high rate of speed just following the shooting, yet investigators are not certain if that vehicle was involved at this time.

At the time of the victim’s transport to the hospital, he was conscious.

Police said they do not believe that this was a random act and it appears that the home was the target of the shooting. Police add they do not believe the 11-year-old victim was the intended target.

Troy City Council President Carmella Mantello also issued a statement on the violence.

“My sincerest thoughts and prayers are with the 11-year-old victim and his family,” she said. “This senseless gun violence is unacceptable. Our police are doing everything humanely possible to track down these cowards.”

At around the same time, a call for shots fired sent officers to the area of Eagle street and 15th street. According to police, there was evidence of gunfire located in the area and two homes were struck by gunfire on Eagle street between 15th and 16th streets.

There were no victims located at this incident and no suspects are in custody in either incident.