David Omar Romero-Colon

David Omar Romero-Colon, a 29-year-old Hispanic man known affectionately to friends and family as Omar, is remembered for his warm personality and constant smile. A devoted father of five children, he worked at Walmart to provide for his family. Those who knew him recall his cheerful attempts at speaking broken English, a testament to his friendly and open nature. His life was one of connection and responsibility, making his sudden and violent death a devastating blow to his loved ones and the wider Rochester community.

The final hours of his life began on the evening of Monday, August 30, 2021. On Sherman Street, near the intersection with Angle Street, gunfire shattered the night's quiet. When officers from the Rochester Police Department arrived at the scene, they discovered two men suffering from gunshot wounds. One of the victims was David, who, according to police, lived at the very location where the shooting occurred. The other man, who was in his 30s, was also seriously injured in the attack.

Emergency medical personnel quickly transported both men to a local hospital. While the second victim was expected to survive his injuries, David’s condition was critical. He fought for his life through the night, but his wounds proved to be too severe. On Tuesday, August 31, 2021, David Omar Romero-Colon succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital. His death marked another tragic loss of life to gun violence in a city grappling with a rise in such incidents.

The Rochester Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit immediately took charge of the case, launching a homicide investigation into the double shooting. Detectives cordoned off the area on Sherman Street, meticulously gathering evidence and speaking with potential witnesses to piece together the events that led to the fatal confrontation. In the initial stages of the investigation, police did not release information regarding a possible motive or any persons of interest, leaving the community anxious for answers.

In the years that have passed since David’s murder, his family has been left in a painful state of uncertainty. The investigation into his killing remains open, but authorities have not publicly announced any arrests or significant breakthroughs. The specific details of what precipitated the gunfire have not been disclosed, deepening the mystery and the anguish for those who knew and loved him. The silence in the case has left a void, with justice for David and his family still unattained.

The community continues to mourn the loss of a man described as a smiling, dedicated father whose future was stolen. The case remains an active investigation with the Rochester Police Department. As of the initial reports in September 2021, no suspects had been identified or apprehended. Authorities continue to appeal to the public for assistance, urging anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward. Tips can be provided to 911, the Major Crimes Unit at 585-428-7157, or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 585-423-9300.