HAMDEN, Conn. — The family of an 18-year-old man fatally shot Saturday night in Hamden is grieving an unimaginable loss as police continue to investigate the deadly shooting.
Hamden police said officers responded to Mix Avenue, where they found Keyvon Washington unresponsive inside his vehicle with a gunshot wound. Despite emergency efforts, Washington was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators said preliminary findings indicate that three individuals approached Washington’s car, opened fire, and then fled the area on foot. No arrests have been announced.
For Washington’s mother, Keyna Washington, the moment she arrived at the scene is one she says will remain with her forever.
“As soon as I came to the scene, I saw his car and I knew it was him,” she said.
Washington’s family describes him as a young man with a kind heart and a growing sense of purpose. His stepfather, Eleazar Thompson, said Keyvon had a deep passion for cooking and often talked about his plans for the future. Loved ones say he enjoyed preparing meals for family and friends and took pride in caring for those closest to him.
“He had a big heart,” Thompson said. “He was always looking out for the people he loved.”
Family members acknowledged that, like many young people, Keyvon experienced challenges and changes as he grew up. But they say he had recently begun making meaningful progress in his life and was focused on positive change.
“Just like any other kid, he had his phases in life,” Thompson said. “It’s just sad that it happened now when he was really making a major change in his life. It’s tragic because you can’t rewind the tape. He’s gone.”
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the Hamden community, adding to ongoing concerns about gun violence and the loss of young lives. Neighbors and community members have expressed condolences to the Washington family, many struggling to understand how a life so young could be taken so suddenly.
Police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward as the investigation remains active. Authorities have not released descriptions of the suspects but continue to canvass the area and review potential surveillance footage.
As the family mourns, they say they want their son to be remembered not for how he died, but for who he was — a young man who loved cooking, cared deeply for others, and was trying to build a better future.
The loss of Keyvon Washington leaves a profound void for his family, who now face the pain of moving forward without him while seeking answers and justice in the days ahead.
Leave a Reply