In the early morning hours of July 31, 2020, tragedy struck in Rochester, New York, claiming the life of 21-year-old Zahr Butler. A Black male, Butler was on OK Terrace when he was fatally shot. The incident occurred around 12:50 a.m., shortly after Rochester police had been called to disperse a large gathering at the nearby intersection of Mazda Terrace and North Clinton Avenue.
Emergency services arrived to find that Butler had sustained at least one gunshot wound to his torso.
Despite the immediate efforts of the responding officers and medical personnel, his injuries proved to be fatal, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Rochester Police Department noted that many individuals present at the scene of the shooting had been part of the crowd that was dispersed just moments before the fatal shots were fired.
The death of Zahr Butler marked the 22nd homicide in the city of Rochester that year, contributing to a significant spike in gun violence the city was experiencing. In an effort to curb the escalating violence, the mayor had previously issued an emergency order limiting public gatherings.
As of the latest available information, the investigation into Zahr Butler's murder is still ongoing. No arrests have been made in connection with the shooting, and authorities have not publicly identified any suspects. The Rochester Police Department continues to appeal to the public for any information that could lead to a breakthrough in the case and bring justice for Zahr Butler and his family.
