In the early hours of a Monday morning, the life of a 14-year-old Black male named William "Will" Vasquez was tragically cut short. On October 25, 2021, the young man from Hamden, Connecticut, was brought to Saint Mary's Hospital in Waterbury with a gunshot wound. The severity of his injury necessitated a transfer to Connecticut Children's Medical Center in Hartford, but sadly, he succumbed to his injuries and passed away.
The initial investigation into the shooting began with the
Waterbury Police Department. However, it soon became apparent that the incident likely occurred outside of their jurisdiction. As a result, the Connecticut State Police Western District Major Crimes Unit assumed control of the homicide investigation. Authorities have been tight-lipped about the specific location of the shooting, seeking to protect the integrity of their ongoing efforts to piece together the events of that fateful morning.
In the days following William's death, his family, including his mother and grandmother, stood with state officials as they addressed the issue of juvenile crime. It was shared that William was a student at New Haven's High School in the Community. Those who knew him described a youth who, like many, faced challenges but was also loved.
As of late 2025, there has been no publicly available information regarding any arrests made or suspects identified in connection with the death of William Vasquez. The investigation remains open, and law enforcement has previously appealed to the public for any information that might lead to a breakthrough in the case. The circumstances surrounding the shooting and the individuals responsible remain a painful mystery for his family and community.
