In the early hours of New Year's Day 2025, a tragic event unfolded in the Claremont section of the Bronx, forever altering the lives of one family. Mario Fowler, a 46-year-old man, was fatally shot in what became one of the city's first homicides of the year. The incident occurred at approximately 5:20 a.m. outside of 350 East 170th St.
Responding to a 911 call, police discovered Fowler inside a nearby building at 364 East 170th St. with multiple gunshot wounds to his legs.
Emergency services rushed him to Saint Barnabas Hospital, but tragically, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. During the investigation, a second victim, a 23-year-old man, was found outside 1420 Clay Ave. with a graze wound to his chin. He was transported to a local hospital in stable condition.
For over a month, the case remained under investigation, with no immediate arrests made. Fowler was remembered by his loved ones as a devoted father of four and a proud grandfather who was deeply committed to his community. A fundraising effort was initiated to support his family with funeral expenses and their future needs, highlighting his legacy of love and service.
On February 3, 2025, a significant development occurred in the case when police arrested 46-year-old Leviathan Siafu in connection with the fatal shooting. Siafu, a resident of the Bronx, was taken into custody within the 44th Precinct. He is facing a series of serious charges, including second-degree murder, first-degree manslaughter, and two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. The motive for the shooting has not been publicly disclosed by authorities as the investigation continues.
