A dispute at a Rome, New York softball tournament turned fatal for 34-year-old Theodore Joseph TJ Chrystie. On the evening of Sunday, July 14, 2024, a verbal altercation at Haselton-Wright Park escalated into a physical struggle after the final game of the night. During that confrontation a handgun was introduced, a struggle for the weapon followed, and the gun discharged, striking Chrystie in the neck. He died of his injuries at a local hospital on Tuesday, July 16, 2024.

Police had responded earlier that evening to reports of a dispute; league board members had initially wanted Chrystie removed but later allowed him to stay provided there would be no further conflict. Investigators say the handgun was not legally possessed. Authorities have not announced any arrests or identified any suspects and the investigation remains active.

If anyone who was at Haselton-Wright Park on July 14 saw the altercation or has information about the handgun, please come forward.