Two Weekend Shootings Prompt Community Response on 19th Street

Niagara Falls Police Department File Photo

Two separate shootings over the weekend near a frequently troubled corner in Niagara Falls have stirred community concern and spurred a local anti-violence group into action.

On Tuesday, members of SNUG, a violence prevention program focused on curbing gun-related incidents, organized a rally at the intersection of 19th Street and Walnut Avenue (an area known for repeated criminal activity including shootings, robberies, prostitution, and etc.). The gathering followed two shooting incidents that occurred Sunday in the parking lot of the Coastal gas station located at that intersection.

The first shooting reportedly took place early Sunday morning and resulted in one individual sustaining a gunshot wound to the leg.

Hours later, just after 5pm, a second incident occurred at the same location. In that case, approximately seven shots were fired. Although no injuries were reported, a bullet struck and damaged the windshield of a vehicle belonging to a gas station employee.

Prior to Sunday, the city had gone 229 consecutive days without a shooting, contributing to an overall decline in gun-related incidents locally and statewide. According to recent data, New York has seen a 53% decrease in shootings in 2025 compared to previous years.

SNUG, whose title is “guns” spelled backward, works from a public health approach, emphasizing outreach and conflict mediation to prevent gun violence. Their team regularly canvasses high-risk areas and engages with individuals between the ages of 13 and 25 who are considered at risk for being involved in violent incidents. Each outreach worker supports six clients and helps connect them to mentorship, positive social experiences, and services such as counseling, re-housing, and substance abuse treatment.

Since opening a Niagara Falls office at 1702 Pine Avenue in 2023, SNUG has expanded its reach through a partnership with Community Missions of Niagara Frontier, Inc. Together, they operate additional services from a location at 1570 Buffalo Avenue.

Niagara Falls was one of several communities in New York to receive state funding to support SNUG’s efforts. In 2022, the city was awarded $500,000 through a public safety initiative led by Governor Kathy Hochul aimed at bolstering community-based solutions to gun violence.

Residents seeking more information or support through the Niagara Falls SNUG program can call (716) 285-3403 extension 5422.

Two Weekend Shootings Prompt Community Response on 19th Street