Stepping Up Against Violence in Crown Heights (March 2024)

Published by: NY1 (Inside City Hall)
Date: March 15, 2024
Scope: Crown Heights North, Prospect Heights

When a wave of deadly shootings struck Crown Heights in early 2024 — including the tragic loss of a 13-year-old boy — Brian Saunders, President of the 77th Precinct community council, stood with other leaders to demand urgent action. Appearing on Inside City Hall with Rev. Taharka Robinson, founder of the Brooklyn Anti-Violence Coalition, Saunders called for stronger collaboration between neighborhood groups, city officials, and law enforcement to reduce the rising tide of gun violence.

By mid-March, Crown Heights had already recorded six fatal shootings, the most of any New York City neighborhood at the time. The 77th Precinct alone had seen three of those shootings, with its murder rate tripling compared to the same period the previous year. Saunders highlighted the urgency of prevention, community outreach, and youth engagement programs as part of a comprehensive solution.

For Saunders, leadership during moments of crisis is not optional — it is essential. His call to action underscored that building safer communities requires both accountability and unity.

Written By Brian Saunders
9/15/2025