A neighborhood dispute outside 2290 Davidson Avenue in the University Heights section of the Bronx turned deadly in the early hours of May 24, 2024. A confrontation between longtime residents and a group described as squatting in vacant apartments escalated after Claretha Daniels felt disrespected by a comment; the squatters reportedly armed themselves with bats and knives before shots were fired.

Justin Blaze Lawless, 36, a resident of the building and a father of three, was struck in the chest and pronounced dead at St. Barnabas Hospital. Claretha Daniels, 44, also died of a gunshot wound to the chest. A 40-year-old man was wounded in the arm and survived. Authorities allege one of the squatters, identified as Josue Silva, produced a firearm and opened fire; Silva reportedly fled the scene and remains at large. The NYPD continues to investigate.

If anyone witnessed the events outside 2290 Davidson Avenue that night or has information about Silva or the confrontation, please share what is known.