Tragedy in Queens: Jamaican Woman Fatally Shot in Senseless Act of Violence
Queens, NY — A quiet Sunday evening in Queens turned into a night of horror and heartbreak when 45-year-old Chenille Ramsey, a Jamaican-born woman known for her kindness and vibrant spirit, was fatally shot in what authorities are calling a tragic and senseless act of violence. The incident occurred in the South Jamaica neighborhood, where residents are now left grieving and searching for answers.
According to the New York Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire shortly after 7:00 p.m. near 135th Avenue and Guy R. Brewer Boulevard. Upon arrival, they discovered Ramsey with a gunshot wound to the head. She was rushed to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where doctors made every effort to save her life. Tragically, she was pronounced dead a short time later.
Police have not released information about a suspect, and no arrests had been made as of Monday morning. The NYPD is actively investigating, reviewing surveillance footage from the area and interviewing potential witnesses to determine what led to the fatal shooting.
The news of Ramsey’s death has sent shockwaves through her family, her neighborhood, and the wider Jamaican diaspora in New York City. Born and raised in Jamaica, Chenille moved to New York over a decade ago in pursuit of a better life. She worked tirelessly to support herself and her loved ones, becoming a beloved figure in her community for her warm smile, generosity, and unshakable faith.
“She was the heart of our family,” said her cousin, Denise Walters. “Always laughing, always cooking, always there when you needed her. I can’t believe she’s gone like this — so violently, so suddenly. She didn’t deserve this. No one does.”
Friends and family gathered Monday outside her apartment building, many openly weeping as they placed flowers, candles, and handwritten notes near the spot where she was found. The memorial grew steadily throughout the day as word of her death spread across social media and throughout local churches and Caribbean businesses in the area.
“Chenille was more than just a neighbor — she was a sister to all of us,” said Mr. Bernard Jones, a local resident who has known her for several years. “She looked out for the elderly. She brought food to people in need. She loved music, especially reggae, and she could make anyone laugh. Losing her feels like losing a piece of our community.”
Originally from St. Catherine Parish, Ramsey frequently sent care packages and money back to her family in Jamaica. She had been planning a trip to visit them later this year. Instead, her family will now be making arrangements to bring her body home — not for a visit, but for burial.
In a statement, the Jamaican Consulate in New York expressed deep sorrow over Ramsey’s death, offering condolences to her family and assuring them of support during this painful time. “This is a heartbreaking loss, and we mourn with all who knew and loved Ms. Ramsey,” the statement read. “We urge anyone with information to come forward to assist authorities in bringing the perpetrator to justice.”
The motive for the shooting remains unclear. Police are urging the public to come forward with any information that might help solve the case. Detectives are particularly interested in any surveillance video from nearby businesses or homes that may have captured the incident or a possible suspect fleeing the scene.
As her loved ones grapple with the shock of her sudden death, many are calling for more action to address gun violence in New York’s neighborhoods.
“This cannot keep happening,” said family friend and activist Carla Wright. “We are losing too many beautiful souls, too many mothers, daughters, and sisters to bullets. We need justice, but we also need change.”
A prayer vigil is being organized for Friday evening near the site of the shooting. Community leaders, clergy, and local residents are expected to attend in honor of Ramsey’s life and legacy.
In a world that often feels indifferent to individual suffering, the loss of Chenille Ramsey is a devastating reminder of how precious — and fragile — life truly is. She was more than a statistic; she was a vibrant woman with dreams, with love to give, and with so much more life to live
