Arrest Made in Maplewood Park Shooting; Investigation Continues

21-year-old Niger Johnson was arrested by Rochester Police, in coordination with the U.S. Marshals' Violent Felony Fugitive Task Force, early Thursday morning.

Authorities have arrested a suspect in connection with the deadly shooting at Maplewood Park on July 28, 2023. The announcement was made in a press conference attended by Rochester Police Chief David Smith, Mayor Malik Evans, and other law enforcement officials.

The tragic incident occurred when hundreds of community members had gathered at Maplewood Park for a summer barbecue. The celebration took a horrifying turn when multiple armed individuals arrived and opened fire, sending panic through the crowd. Seven people were shot, including Felicia Council and Tasia Manning, who succumbed to their injuries.

After months of meticulous investigation, law enforcement officials identified 21-year-old Niger Johnson as one of the individuals who fired a weapon that night. Rochester Police, in coordination with the U.S. Marshals' Violent Felony Fugitive Task Force, executed an arrest warrant early Thursday morning at a residence on the 800 block of Arnett Boulevard, where Johnson was found and taken into custody without incident. He is currently being held at Monroe County Jail and is set to be arraigned in Rochester City Court.

Johnson is facing charges of reckless endangerment in the first degree and criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree. Authorities noted that he had prior arrests for illegal firearm possession in both 2022 and 2023.

Despite this arrest, officials emphasized that the investigation is far from over.

“While we are pleased to have one individual in custody, there are still others who need to be held accountable,” said Mayor Evans. “We must keep our foot on the gas until every person involved in this senseless act is brought to justice.”

Investigators have identified approximately 16 individuals who were carrying firearms at the scene. At least nine different guns were discharged, with nearly 50 rounds fired. While Johnson’s bullets did not strike any victims, authorities say his reckless actions contributed to the chaos and danger that unfolded that night.

Police officials have faced challenges in the investigation, including a lack of cooperation from some individuals who may have information. Despite these obstacles, Chief Smith assured the public that law enforcement remains committed to pursuing every lead.

“We don’t give up. We don’t quit,” he said. “We will continue working until all those responsible are held accountable.”

Mayor Evans also took a moment to remember the victims, highlighting the impact they had on the community. Manning was a beloved city employee who worked with youth at a local recreation center, while Council was active in human services.

“They had their entire lives ahead of them. We owe it to their families to ensure justice is served,” he said.

Authorities urge anyone with information about the shooting or other suspects involved to come forward. Photos of persons of interest will be re-released in an effort to generate leads. Additionally, police are investigating the possibility of charges against individuals who may have harbored Johnson while he was evading authorities.

The tragedy at Maplewood Park has left a lasting impact on the Rochester community, and officials stress the importance of cooperation in bringing closure to the victims’ families.

“We must not allow our parks and our neighborhoods to be places of fear,” said Mayor Evans. “We will continue fighting for justice and a safer Rochester for all.”