In the early hours of New Year's Day 2023, a violent encounter on a Connecticut highway ended the life of Qualon Wilkes, a 22-year-old Black / African American man. Wilkes, a resident of Bridgeport, was a passenger in a vehicle traveling on Route 15 in Hamden when the shooting occurred at approximately 2:23 a.m. near exit 60. The gunfire also claimed the life of the car's driver, 23-year-old Adrian Lopez of Bridgeport, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
First responders arrived to
find a tragic scene. Wilkes was critically injured and was rushed to Yale New Haven Hospital. He fought for his life for several days before succumbing to his injuries on January 5, 2023. Two other passengers were in the vehicle; one sustained non-life-threatening injuries, and the other was unharmed. Both Wilkes and Lopez were remembered as standout basketball players at Bassick High School.
Those who knew Qualon Wilkes described him as a positive influence in his community. He worked as a substitute teacher for Bridgeport Public Schools and was considered a mentor by his students. His family emphasized that he was dedicated to his work, education, and family, and was not involved in any trouble. His death was a profound loss to those who looked up to him and to a community that saw his bright future cut short. The Central District Major Crime Squad is handling the ongoing investigation. Authorities have appealed to the public for any information, particularly from drivers who might have dashcam footage from the area at the time of the shooting. As of now, no arrests have been announced and no suspects have been publicly identified in connection with the deaths of Qualon Wilkes and Adrian Lopez.
