A late-night burst of gunfire on West 113th Street near Lenox Avenue turned deadly Tuesday night, claiming the life of 61-year-old Excenia Mette — a beloved Harlem grandmother and community helper — as she stepped outside to check on her grandson.
According to police and family accounts, Mette had just finished helping clean up at a nearby deli when she heard shots ring out.
Concerned for her grandson’s safety, she stepped out of her apartment around 10:30 p.m. and was struck in the head by a bullet. She was rushed to Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
Authorities say Mette was caught in the crossfire of a violent dispute involving at least two shooters. One of them, 23-year-old Darious Smith, was discovered at the scene with a gunshot wound to his foot. He was taken into custody and remains hospitalized in stable condition.
Smith has been charged with attempted murder and criminal possession of a weapon. Police believe he was the first to open fire in what is being described as a three-person altercation. He had previously been arrested in connection with a double stabbing last year, according to Mayor Eric Adams.
A firearm and eight shell casings were recovered at the scene. The second suspect — believed to have fired the fatal shot — remains at large. NYPD continues its investigation and is urging anyone with information to come forward.
Dozens of candles now line the sidewalk near Mette’s home, placed by mourners and neighbors who say she treated everyone in her corner of Harlem like family.
Her grandson, who was inside at the time of the shooting, shared through tears, “She treated everyone in this corner like they were hers.”
The tragic incident has reignited calls for action against gun violence in New York City. In response, Mayor Adams announced plans to destroy 3,500 firearms recently taken off city streets, emphasizing the urgent need for reform and community safety.
As Harlem grieves the loss of one of its own, city officials and residents alike continue to demand answers — and justice.
Anyone with information is urged to contact NYPD’s Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.
