Addressing The Ongoing Violence At Church Avenue & E 18th Street

As you may already know, police at the 70th Precinct have made an arrest in yesterday’s shooting inside the Church Avenue B/Q station, although they tell us they are unable to release the name of the shooter until they receive approval from the Brooklyn District Attorney’s office.

However, many neighbors have also noted that yesterday was just one in a string of violent incidents over the last year (see February 14, October 24, and December 3) at or near the intersection of Church Avenue and E 18th Street. We reached out to Councilmember Mathieu Eugene to see what he thinks should be done at the troubled spot.

“Shootings continue to tragically impact neighborhoods all across New York City,” the Councilmember said. “It is unfortunate that our young people continue to fall victim to gun violence. Mothers are losing their sons, children are being orphaned, and families are being torn apart as we continue to lose innocent lives to senseless crime.

“This issue requires cooperation from all of us–elected officials, clergy, neighbors, teachers, parents, and the police. I have been at the forefront of this struggle, hosting public forums in our district with the collaboration of police, members of the clergy, residents, and community leaders to discuss ongoing safety concerns.

“I also held a Gun Buy Back program at St Paul’s Church in Flatbush, during which we collected 69 firearms. I will continue to do everything in my power to improve the safety of our neighborhoods, but I cannot do it alone. I urge you to join me and other community-minded residents in our efforts to address this ongoing issue.”

The intersection is within an NYPD Impact Zone, and 70th Precinct Commanding Officer Inspector Eric Rodriguez has said his officers are likely on E 18th Street “more than anywhere else in the precinct.” There was a watchtower at the intersection over the summer, which was poorly received by neighbors and has since been moved.

Many of you have expressed your dismay with the goings on, and speculated about the impact of increased police presence or cameras. If you have an idea you think would benefit the community, and make you feel safer heading to work, buying groceries, or taking your kids to school, here are some things you can do:

• Attend the next 70th Precinct Community Council Meeting at UCP (175 Lawrence Avenue between Ocean Parkway and Seton Place) on Wednesday, January 29 at 7:30pm.

• Let Councilmember Eugene know at Meugene@council.nyc.gov.

Stay safe out there, and if you see any criminal activity at the intersection or elsewhere in our area, please let us know (after you contact the authorities, of course!) at editor@ditmasparkcorner.com.