NEW YORK — A tragic incident unfolded in Harlem when a shootout initiated by a gunman resulted in the death of a cherished local grandmother, authorities said. The suspected gunman, 23-year-old Darious Smith, concealed his face as he entered a New York City courtroom in a wheelchair Thursday afternoon, facing charges linked to the violent episode.
Police reported that the confrontation began on the night of April 22, around 10:40 p.m., after Smith allegedly engaged in a heated dispute with another individual near West 113th Street and Lenox Avenue. During the altercation, Smith reportedly drew a firearm and opened fire, though his initial shots missed their intended target. The altercation escalated quickly as the other individual retaliated, shooting Smith in the left foot.
Amid the chaos, 61-year-old Excenia Mette, a beloved local business owner and grandmother, stepped outside her building upon hearing the disturbance. Tragically, she was struck in the head by a stray bullet and subsequently collapsed on the sidewalk. Emergency services promptly responded, and Mette was rushed to Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital where she was pronounced dead.
Mette, known affectionately by her community as Momma Zee, was celebrated for her entrepreneurial spirit, having owned and operated Momma Zee’s Food to Plez Deli on Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. Her sudden death has left the community mourning the loss of a figure well-known for her kindness and dedication to her neighborhood.
During his court appearance, held at the courthouse on Center Street, Smith donned a Tyvek suit and remained largely unresponsive, using one hand to lower his hood over his face, while the other remained cuffed to his wheelchair. Authorities described him as the instigator of the shootout.
The incident has prompted widespread concern and mourning within the Harlem community, with New York City Mayor Eric Adams expressing his dismay over the senseless violence. “This is a horrific incident that took the life of a grandmother who was a pillar in our community,” Mayor Adams stated, emphasizing the gravity of the loss.
Smith faces charges of attempted murder and criminal possession of a weapon. Law enforcement officials are still searching for the gunman who fired the shot that killed Mette. In an effort to advance the investigation, police have urged anyone with information to come forward, assuring that all tips will be treated with confidentiality.
The community has rallied together in the wake of the tragedy, honoring Mette’s memory and calling for peace and safety in the neighborhood. As the legal proceedings against Smith continue, many are left hoping for justice for Mette, whose life was abruptly and tragically cut short.