On a tragic evening in the Bronx, 67-year-old Abdou Jallow, a Gambian man, was preparing for evening prayers at his local mosque when his life was irrevocably altered. On April 3, 2021, at approximately 6:20 p.m., a violent chase unfolded in the Morrisania section of the Bronx. Two armed men were in pursuit of 22-year-old Gabriel Casso, an aspiring rapper, through the intersection of East 166th Street and Findlay Avenue.
The gunmen fired multiple shots at Casso, killing him at the scene.
The brazen violence attracted the attention of three nearby NYPD officers who were conducting a traffic stop. The officers engaged with the suspects, who then fled down East 166th Street. In the ensuing chaos and exchange of gunfire, a stray bullet struck Jallow in his left arm. He was rushed to Lincoln Hospital, bleeding profusely from the serious injury.
Described by his nephew as a peaceful and well-loved member of his community, Jallow was known for his gentle nature and laughter. He volunteered at his mosque, even sleeping there at night to ensure its safety. After the shooting, he also suffered a heart attack. For months, Jallow fought for his life, but he ultimately succumbed to his injuries on January 9, 2022.
One of the men involved in the shooting, Hassan Maxwell, 26, was later apprehended. In addition to his role in the events of that day, Maxwell was also charged with the attempted murder of an inmate while at Rikers Island. On November 12, 2024, Maxwell pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter, first-degree assault, and second-degree attempted murder. For his part in the violence that led to the deaths of both Gabriel Casso and Abdou Jallow, he was sentenced to 25 years in prison on December 19, 2024.
