In the pre-dawn hours of July 10, 2021, the life of 20-year-old Hispanic male Kevan Bonilla was tragically cut short in the Fair Haven neighborhood of New Haven, Connecticut. Bonilla, a resident of Bridgeport, was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds on Lombard Street, between Ferry and Poplar streets, at approximately 4:10 a.m. a police spokesperson stated. Emergency services were dispatched to the scene, and Bonilla was quickly transported to Yale New Haven Hospital.
Despite the efforts of medical staff, he was pronounced dead.
Kevan Bonilla's death marked the 17th homicide in New Haven in 2021, a statistic that highlighted a concerning rise in violence in the city. Bonilla was known in his community as a boxer, and his sudden and violent death sent shockwaves through his family and friends. In the wake of the tragedy, those who knew him gathered for a candlelight vigil to mourn their loss and remember the young man whose life had been stolen. His family described him as a beloved son and friend, and a GoFundMe campaign was established to assist with his funeral expenses.
The New Haven Police Department launched an investigation into Bonilla's murder, appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the apprehension of the person or persons responsible. Authorities urged any witnesses who may have been in the area at the time of the shooting to come forward and share what they saw. To date, there have been no public announcements regarding any arrests made or suspects identified in connection with the fatal shooting of Kevan Bonilla. The case remains an open investigation as his family and community continue to seek justice.