In the late hours of a Wednesday in Albany, New York, the life of 34-year-old Ashad Cooper was cut short by gunfire. On February 7, 2024, at approximately 10 p.m., police responded to reports of a shooting at the intersection of Ontario and First streets. By the time they arrived, Cooper had already been transported to Albany Medical Center Hospital by an unidentified individual.
He was pronounced dead shortly after, having sustained gunshot wounds to the neck and chest.
The day leading up to the fatal shooting had been tumultuous for Cooper. According to police reports, he had been involved in a series of physical altercations throughout the day. In one incident, a female acquaintance of Cooper's allegedly drove a vehicle towards several people, though no injuries were reported. About an hour before the shooting, Cooper was briefly detained by police following a dispute at a restaurant on Central Avenue. He was released after the other party declined to cooperate with officers.
Originally from Albany, Ashad Cooper was known as a musical artist, social commentator, and entrepreneur. His obituary described him as an outgoing and generous person who frequently supported local businesses and community events. He was a father to two daughters. Public records indicate that Cooper had a criminal history, including a 2014 arrest for weapon and drug possession.
As of the latest available reports, the investigation into Ashad Cooper's death is ongoing. Albany police have not publicly identified any suspects or made any arrests in connection with the homicide. Authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigation. His death marked one of several homicides in Albany in the early part of the year.
