Danger on the street. Blue flasher on the police car at night.
A tragic shooting on New Year’s Day outside a home on Curtis Street in Rochester has been identified as the city’s first homicide of 2025. Police responded to a 1:45 a.m. call reporting gunfire and found 23-year-old Preston Papalia lying in the street with a gunshot wound to the chest. Despite immediate efforts by emergency responders, Papalia was pronounced dead at the scene.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the fatal shooting followed an altercation outside the residence. Authorities have identified the individuals involved in the incident, though no arrests have been made at this time. The case has been referred to the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, which will present the findings to a grand jury to determine if charges should be filed.
The shocking incident has left the community reeling as the investigation continues. Detectives from the Rochester Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit are actively working on the case, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. However, police have not disclosed details about the nature of the altercation or the relationship between Papalia and those involved.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. Community members can provide tips anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers or emailing the department at majorcrimes@cityofrochester.gov. Immediate tips can also be reported by calling 911 or the Rochester Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit directly.
As Rochester grapples with its first homicide of the year, city officials and law enforcement have emphasized the importance of community involvement in solving violent crimes. “The success of our investigations relies on the cooperation of residents,” a police spokesperson said. “Even the smallest detail could make a difference.”
The fatal shooting of Preston Papalia marks a grim beginning to the year for Rochester. As the investigation moves forward, officials remain committed to seeking justice for the victim and his grieving family.