John A. Lacy was a man known for his big heart and a one-of-a-kind presence that left a lasting impression on everyone he met. At 48 years old, the Rochester native was a proud father with a deep passion for cars and a sharp sense of humor that could bring people to tears with laughter. He maintained countless friendships throughout his life and was a cherished son and brother.
Those who loved him remember a man who was always there for them, whose absence has created a profound and painful void. He is survived by his son, Nathan, his daughter, Skyler, his parents, Barbara and John Lacy, and his sister, Kimberly Gandy, along with many other relatives and dear friends.
In the pre-dawn hours of Wednesday, September 30, 2026, the quiet of a residential neighborhood on Rochester's west side was shattered by the sound of gunfire. Around 1:45 a.m., officers from the Rochester Police Department were dispatched to 132 Otis Street, located between Murray and Santee streets, following reports of shots being fired in the area. The neighborhood, filled with single-family homes, was dark and still at that hour, with few people around to witness what had happened.
When police arrived at the scene, they discovered John Lacy lying in the driveway of the home. He was unresponsive, having sustained at least one gunshot wound to his torso. Emergency responders acted quickly, providing immediate medical aid before rushing him to Strong Memorial Hospital (URMC) for emergency treatment. Despite the efforts of medical staff, Mr. Lacy succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
The investigation began immediately, with the Rochester Police Department’s Major Crimes Homicide Unit taking the lead. Officers cordoned off Otis Street, and detectives began canvassing the area, searching for evidence and speaking with residents who may have heard or seen something. Police officials, including Capt. Frank Umbrino, informed the public that while Mr. Lacy was found at the Otis Street address, he did not live there. He was, however, acquainted with people who lived in the neighborhood. The circumstances that brought him to that driveway in the middle of the night, and what led to the fatal shooting, remain unknown.
John Lacy’s death was recorded as the 16th homicide in the city of Rochester in 2026. In the days and weeks that followed, investigators continued to work the case, but no suspects were publicly identified, and no arrests were made. The motive for the shooting has not been determined, leaving his family and the community with unanswered questions about why his life was so violently cut short.
While police searched for answers, John's family and friends gathered to grieve and honor the man they loved. Calling hours were held on Wednesday, October 14, followed by a funeral service the next day at Falvo Funeral Home in the nearby town of Webster. He was laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In a gesture that spoke to his kind nature, his family requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be considered in his memory to Lollypop Farm, the Humane Society of Greater Rochester.
As of October 2026, the investigation into John Lacy's murder is ongoing, and his case remains unsolved. The Rochester Police Department continues to ask for the public’s assistance in bringing his killer to justice. Anyone with information about the shooting, or who may have home security video from the area on that night, is urged to come forward. Tips can be directed to 911, the RPD's Major Crimes Unit at (585) 428-7157, or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at (585) 423-9300. Emails can also be sent to [email protected].
