In the Stapleton neighborhood of Staten Island, New York, a community was shaken by the violent death of Derrick “Duke” Carter, a 40-year-old African American man. On the day of February 24, 2025, Carter was discovered with a fatal gunshot wound, prompting a response from the New York Police Department who have since been investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.
Carter, a father to six children named Savannah, Nia'miah, Juston, Delilah, Deja, and DJ, was a figure known
and loved within his community. He was an employee of the New York City Housing Authority and also worked at TJ Maxx. His vibrant personality and sense of humor left a lasting impression on those he knew, and he was remembered as a man with a big heart who was deeply devoted to his family and friends. In the wake of his passing, a candlelight vigil was held in Dongan Hills, where dozens gathered to mourn the loss of a beloved father and friend. His sister, Mishonia Lee, organized a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses.
Born in Brooklyn on May 11, 1984, to Sheila Carter and Derrick Wilson, he moved to the New Brighton community of Staten Island with his mother at the age of five. He attended local schools before briefly relocating to Washington, D.C., where he graduated from Dunbar High School and developed a passion for basketball and modeling. Upon his return to New York, he continued to be active in local basketball tournaments.
The investigation into Derrick Carter's death remains ongoing. As of now, authorities have not made any arrests in connection with the shooting, and no suspects have been publicly identified. The motive behind the killing has also not been released. The community and Carter's family are left awaiting answers, urging anyone with information to come forward to aid in the investigation and help bring justice for a life cut tragically short.
