Kinu Rochford, a 35-year-old former professional basketball player who competed in the UK, was shot dead in New York City on Friday, July 10, 2026. The incident occurred just before 10:30 p.m. local time at 70 Lenox Avenue in Harlem, during an annual basketball tournament, according to police.
Details of the shooting
Rochford, originally from the Brooklyn area of New York, was shot in the head and rushed to hospital in critical condition, where he later died from his injuries. Two other individuals were also wounded: a 28-year-old man shot in the shin and a 22-year-old woman shot in the forearm. Both were taken to hospital and are reported to be in stable condition.
The attack took place in the courtyard of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Towers, a large public housing complex. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Tributes to a standout leader
Rochford was a former basketball player at Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey. The university's team described him as a "standout knight and leader" in a social media post. He was also regarded as one of the most talented players across New York's five boroughs.
He last played professionally for Golden Eagle Ylli in Kosovo in 2021. From 2015 to 2016, he played for Cheshire Phoenix, a team based in Ellesmere Port, England. The club paid tribute on Facebook, stating: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Nix player, Kinu Rochford. Kinu was reportedly taking part in a basketball event in New York when he was fatally injured in a gun-related incident. We will always remember Kinu for the larger-than-life personality he brought to the club, both on and off the court. He was a valued member of the Nix family and his impact will not be forgotten. Our heartfelt thoughts and deepest condolences are with Kinu's family, friends, and everyone whose lives he touched. Rest in peace, Kinu."
Numerous supporters left touching tributes in the comments section. One woman wrote: "Such sad news. Kinu was such a kind and amazing player! Such an awful loss. Thoughts and prayers with his friends and family."
Mayor condemns violence
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani also offered condolences while condemning the shooting. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he said: "I am heartbroken for the family of the man who was killed last night at a basketball tournament in Harlem. This senseless violence must stop. New Yorkers deserve to spend the summer watching and playing sports, attending community events and enjoying our public spaces - places where families, friends and neighbours joyfully gather, not where people are at risk of becoming victims to gun violence. We are working closely with our community partners to provide services to those affected and the entire community. Our administration is using every lever across agencies to prevent further violence and ensure all New Yorkers can safely enjoy the city this summer."
