In the Edenwald section of the Bronx on the afternoon of March 20, 2025, a fatal encounter unfolded inside a residence on East 231st Street. Xavier Goodson, a 32-year-old African American male, was shot within his own home. Police officers from the 47th Precinct responded to a 911 call shortly after 4 p.m. to discover Goodson unconscious and suffering from gunshot wounds to his head and abdomen.
Emergency services rushed him to Jacobi Hospital, but his injuries proved to be too severe, and he was pronounced dead.
Known in his community as a fitness trainer and a music artist who went by the names 'Gladiator Zay' and 'Chef Aimz,' friends and family described Goodson as a charismatic and respectful individual. The news of his violent death sent ripples of grief and concern through the neighborhood, once again highlighting the persistent issue of gun violence. In the immediate aftermath, the shooter had fled the scene, and police began an urgent investigation into the circumstances that led to the deadly shooting.
The investigation progressed swiftly, and by the following day, March 21, 2025, authorities announced that they had made arrests in connection with the homicide. Five male individuals were taken into custody. The suspects were identified as 22-year-old Jahiem Pasco, 20-year-old Jaire Drakes, 20-year-old Naesean Jackson, and 20-year-old Kelvin Woods. Reports later indicated two more individuals, Kanye Lucas and Kevvon Davis, were also charged. Court documents revealed a familial connection to the tragedy, identifying Jaire Drakes as the victim's cousin.
According to the Bronx County District Attorney's Office, the shooting allegedly stemmed from an argument between Goodson and his cousin, Jaire Drakes, that escalated with devastating consequences. All the arrested individuals were charged with second-degree murder, first-degree manslaughter, and two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. As the case moves through the legal system, the investigation remains ongoing.
