Police Close to Arrest in Kelly Murder

Police are close to making an arrest for the murder of Gilbert Kelly, shot last month on Grand Avenue, Captain Peter Fiorillo, the new commanding officer of the 88th Precinct, said last night at the 88th Precinct Community Council meeting.

The shooter may be connected with a gang active within the Lafayette Gardens Houses in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Fiorillo said. Kelly was not connected with the gang and was likely in the wrong place at the wrong time, according to Fiorillo. Kelly, a well-known homeless man, had cleaned the block on Grand Avenue between Putnam and Gates Avenues, for almost 20 years.

“It’s been a very positive investigation, and I’m very positive there will be an arrest soon,” Fiorillo said. “Mr. Kelly will see his justice soon.”

Locals at the meeting said that they often hear shots from Lafayette Gardens, most recently on Monday night around 8 p.m. Although Lafayette Gardens is across the road from the 88th Precinct, it lies within the jurisdiction of the 79th Precinct. Fiorillo said the precincts are working together to reduce gang violence, especially as the weather warms up.

“There is something in motion with this crew, possibly on the federal level,” Fiorillo said.

Anyone who has information about the shooting is encouraged to call NYPD Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477), submit tips online or text tips to 274637 (CRIMES) and enter TIP577. Those with information can also call the 88th Precinct’s Detective Squad at (718) 636-6547.