Stratford, CT / Bronx, NY — The lives of two young men were tragically cut short in the early morning hours of Monday, July 28, 2025, when a double shooting in the Bronx claimed the life of Gabriel Alvarez, a 22-year-old resident of Stratford, Connecticut, and 21-year-old Adam Waldropt of the Bronx.
The devastating incident unfolded just after 6:00 a.m. in the 500 block of Brush Avenue, within the jurisdiction of the NYPD’s 45th Precinct, prompting a swift emergency response following a 911 call reporting gunfire and two victims down.
Upon arriving at the scene, New York City Police Department officers discovered both men suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Gabriel Alvarez had been struck in the armpit and shoulder, while Adam Waldropt had sustained wounds to the abdomen and buttocks. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) transported the victims to a local hospital in critical condition. Tragically, despite all life-saving efforts, both men succumbed to their injuries shortly after arrival.
The NYC Medical Examiner’s Office will officially determine the cause and manner of death, and homicide detectives are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. As of this time, no arrests have been made, and police have not released a motive or suspect information. Authorities are asking anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward and contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers tip line.
Remembering Gabriel Alvarez
Born and raised in Connecticut, Gabriel Alvarez was a young man with a future full of promise. At just 22, he had already begun carving a path forward, remembered by friends and family as outgoing, loyal, and deeply kind-hearted. Those who knew Gabriel say he had a contagious laugh, a sharp sense of humor, and a fierce devotion to those he loved.
“Gabriel had a light in him that touched everyone,” said a family friend. “He was one of those people who made you feel seen and valued. Losing him this way — it’s beyond heartbreaking.”
Gabriel lived on Goldbach Drive in Stratford and had strong ties to both Connecticut and New York. While the reason for his presence in the Bronx on the morning of the shooting is still being investigated, family members described him as someone who loved to travel and connect with people, and he frequently spent time with friends in the city.
He was also known for his deep love for music, often sharing playlists with friends and aspiring to work in the entertainment industry. In high school, he played basketball and was considered a natural leader both on and off the court.
A Community in Mourning
The Stratford community is reeling from the sudden and violent loss of one of its own. Friends have taken to social media to share tributes, photos, and memories of Gabriel, using the hashtag #JusticeForGabriel to raise awareness about the shooting and demand accountability.
In the days following his death, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched by relatives to assist the Alvarez family with funeral expenses and to establish a fund in Gabriel’s name, intended to support local youth programs in Stratford. As of Tuesday afternoon, donations have begun pouring in from friends, neighbors, and concerned members of the public.
A candlelight vigil is also being planned for later this week at Paradise Green in Stratford, where family members are expected to speak and community leaders will honor Gabriel’s life.
Remembering Adam Waldropt
Also killed in the shooting was Adam Waldropt, a 21-year-old man from the Bronx. Though little has been made public about Waldropt’s background, authorities confirm he and Alvarez were together at the time of the shooting. Loved ones of Waldropt have described him as a “genuine soul” and someone who “always tried to do right by others.”
His family has not yet issued a public statement, but a memorial has been established near the scene of the shooting with flowers, candles, and photos.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have yet to confirm whether Alvarez and Waldropt were targeted or victims of a random act of violence. Investigators are reviewing nearby surveillance footage and conducting interviews with potential witnesses. Anyone with information is urged to call NYPD Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online. All tips will remain confidential.
A Life Taken Too Soon
Gabriel Alvarez’s life was taken in a moment of violence, leaving a void that cannot be filled. His family, heartbroken and seeking answers, is determined to see justice served. As they begin the painful process of mourning, they ask for privacy and prayers — and hope that his story will inspire change in how we approach youth, violence, and community healing.
“Gabriel deserved a future,” his mother said quietly through tears. “He deserved time. And now all we have are memories.”
Rest in peace, Gabriel Alvarez. Your light will never be forgotten.
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