In the early hours of July 5, 2023, the life of 26-year-old Roberto 'Rico' A. Acosta was tragically cut short in a shooting that unfolded near the intersection of Jersey and Oliver Streets in Paterson, New Jersey. A Black / African American male, Acosta was a lifelong Paterson resident after being born in the Bronx, New York. He was a devoted father to his three children, Alaiya, Carter, and Kali, and was known for his passion for life and music, which he used as a form of creative expression.
He was considered a rising star in the music scene.
The incident that claimed Acosta's life also resulted in the death of a 17-year-old male and left three other individuals with gunshot wounds. The injured were transported to local hospitals for medical attention. As of now, the investigation into the shooting that led to Roberto Acosta's death is still active and ongoing. Law enforcement authorities have not yet made any arrests in connection with the fatal shooting.
The community was left to mourn the loss of the young father and aspiring musician. His family, including his father, grandmother, brother, and sisters, held visiting hours on July 13, 2023, followed by a funeral service the next day at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson. He was laid to rest at Laurel Grove Cemetery in Totowa. The search for those responsible for this act of violence continues as his loved ones are left to cherish his memory.
