CONTACT:
Kristia Winter, Communications Director
KWinter@council.nyc.gov, 718-629-2900

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEW YORK—Council Member Farah Louis (D-Brooklyn), Vice Co-Chair of the Black Latino and Asian Caucus (BLAC), released the following statement after 17-year-old Devonte Lewis was shot in the chest and hand outside of the Urban Dove Charter School on Thursday afternoon. He later died from his injuries at Kings County Hospital.  

STATEMENT BY COUNCIL MEMBER FARAH LOUIS

“I am outraged that 17-year-old Devonte Lewis will never receive his high school diploma, celebrate his 21st birthday, or change our community because he was killed in broad daylight, just steps outside of his school. Today, a parent lost their child and a student body must now cope with the loss of their classmate. 

“With the police investigation underway, it is paramount that we remain focused on addressing the gun violence that continues to plague our community rather than further scrutinizing an academic institution that is dedicated to providing our youth with a second chance to pursue higher education and lead meaningful lives.  

“The launch of Safe Summer NYC and our ongoing work with Cure Violence groups will be instrumental in de-escalating tensions to prevent shootings while connecting our youth to opportunities and programming.

“I want to extend my deepest sympathies to Lewis’ family and school community.”

comprises Flatbush, East Flatbush, Midwood, Marine Park, Flatlands, & Kensington in Brooklyn, NY. Currently, she serves as Chair of the Committee on Mental Health, Disabilities, and Addictions. She is also a member of the committees on Civil Service and Labor; Economic Development; Education; Finance; Housing and Buildings; Youth Services; and Justice System. Council Member Louis is the Co-Chair of the Women’s Caucus and Vice Co-Chair of the Black, Latino, and Asian Caucus.

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