Edgar Spence, 78, known to neighbors as Natural and Pops, was killed by a stray bullet on the night of April 16, 2026. Spence had sat on a bench outside his Mitchell Houses apartment on Alexander Avenue around 10:30 p.m., eating candy, when gunfire broke out and a bullet struck his stomach. He later died at Lincoln Hospital. Police say he was not the intended target.

A makeshift memorial of candles, some forming an N for Natural, was placed on the bench and community members held a balloon release to mourn him. His family and neighbors describe him as the grandfather on the block who looked out for people. As of late April 2026, no arrests have been made; the NYPD is reviewing surveillance footage and community advocates have offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

If anyone knew Edgar, witnessed the shooting, or has information that could help the investigation, please come forward and share what you know.