Brooklyn, New York — The investigation continues into the tragic shooting that claimed the life of a 16-year-old boy in Crown Heights. Detectives have released surveillance images showing a masked gunman who fatally shot Tyson “TJ” Harps Jr. just 90 minutes after he reassured his mother through a text message that he was safe.
The incident occurred on Saturday night around 8:45 p.m. near Eastern Parkway and Rochester Avenue. Tyson, who was visiting friends from the Bronx, was approached by the suspect, described as having a slight build and wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt. Witnesses reported that the assailant opened fire, striking Tyson multiple times, including in the head.
Heartbroken family members shared that Tyson typically stayed with his godbrother during visits to Brooklyn. His mother expressed her anguish, recalling how she had asked him to keep in touch regularly. “At 7:21 p.m., we exchanged texts. He told me he was okay,” she said. “I just wanted him to check in.” Tragically, he did not have another chance to do so.
Tyson’s mother, who requested anonymity out of concern for her family’s safety, described the overwhelming pain of losing her son. “I feel like my soul is gone,” she shared, emphasizing her struggle to cope with the loss and the emptiness of his absence.
Upon arriving at the scene, she found her son’s body covered in a sheet, behind the police tape. Investigators recovered a total of nine shell casings from the area, underscoring the violence that led to this senseless death. Law enforcement officials are actively pursuing leads and have indicated that they located additional images of the suspect taken a few blocks away, where he was seen without a mask.
The motive behind this tragic shooting remains unclear, leading to further distress for Tyson’s family. “Why my son? He was just trying to come home,” his mother lamented, grappling with the confusion of the senseless act.
In the wake of this tragedy, Tyson’s devastated family is also facing financial burdens associated with funeral expenses. His mother has created a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the costs of memorial service arrangements. “I never imagined I’d be in this position,” she said through tears. “I’m still trying to figure out how to bury my son.”
While New York City has seen a decline in murders and shootings this year, statistics offer little comfort to families affected by gun violence. So far, the city has recorded 266 murders, a 19% reduction from the previous year. However, for families like Tyson’s, the statistics provide no solace.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the shooting to contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS. All calls are kept confidential as investigators work to bring justice for Tyson and his grieving family.