Crystal Brown

Crystal Renee Brown, a 44-year-old Black woman who worked at a collection agency, was a beloved daughter, sister, and friend. She lived alone in Wilmington, Delaware, and was a cherished part of a large family. Those who knew her remembered a caring person whose life was a support system for her loved ones. Her sudden death left a void in the hearts of her family and a community already grappling with the consequences of gun violence.

On the evening of Sunday, July 6, 2014, Crystal’s life was cut short by a stray bullet. Around 9:45 p.m., she was leaving Adams Market, a convenience store at the corner of West Seventh and North Adams Streets, with relatives. Outside the store, a crowd of about 30 people had gathered to watch a fight that had broken out between two teenage girls. As Crystal tried to walk around the confrontation to head home, gunfire erupted from about a block away, near Sixth and Adams Streets. Investigators believe two gunmen were firing at each other, discharging at least 20 shots. Crystal, who was not involved in the dispute, was struck in the chest.

A neighbor, Bernard Reyes, heard the gunshots and saw people running for cover. He then saw Crystal lying wounded in the street. Wilmington police officers arrived at the chaotic scene and immediately began performing CPR. She was rushed to Christiana Hospital, but despite the efforts of medical staff, Crystal succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead. The tragedy was compounded by the fact that it unfolded in front of her family members, including pre-teens who were with her that night.

The Wilmington Police Department launched an investigation, canvassing the neighborhood and pleading with the public for information. Detectives believed that with a crowd of 30 people present, there were many potential witnesses who could help identify the shooters. However, their efforts were hampered by a "stop snitching" culture that made many reluctant to come forward. Police Chief Bobby Cummings and Corporal Mark Ivey stressed that the suspects were dangerous individuals who had shown a reckless disregard for public safety by opening fire in a populated area.

A week after the shooting, on July 14, police held a news conference at the scene of the crime, joined by Crystal’s grieving mother, Doreen Hovington. In a heart-wrenching plea for help, she spoke directly to the community and to those responsible for her daughter’s death. "You took my support system," Hovington said. "You put a big hole in my heart, a big hole in my family's heart." Crystal’s sister, Sheila Lewis, and brother, Harry Brown, also appealed for anyone with information to step forward. "I'm going to miss my sister," Lewis said. "I just hope and pray this won’t be one of those cases that is just tossed aside."

The community mourned alongside the family. A vigil was held for Crystal the day after her death, where her mother’s cries of "They killed my baby" were met with the embraces of loved ones. Friends expressed their frustration with the ongoing violence in their neighborhood. "Our neighborhood and childhood friends are killing each other off," said her friend, Tiffany Smith. "Enough is enough! Put the guns down!" A celebration of Crystal's life was held on July 11, 2014, at The House of Wright Mortuary. She was survived by her mother, sister, brother, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Years have passed, but Crystal Brown’s murder remains unsolved. No suspects have been publicly identified, and no arrests have been made. Her case is a painful reminder of an innocent life lost to senseless violence. For her family, the absence of justice prolongs their grief. Wilmington police have asked that anyone with information call the confidential tip line at 302-576-3990 or text a tip to 888777 and type "tipwilmington" in the message.