Authorities in Syracuse have identified the man who died following a late-night shooting on the city’s south side earlier this week. The Syracuse Police Department confirmed that the victim was 40-year-old Joseph Castillo. Officers responded to reports of gunfire near Midland Avenue and West Brighton Avenue around 11:04 p.m. on Tuesday, October 14. When they arrived, they found Castillo suffering from multiple serious injuries. Paramedics provided immediate aid before transporting him to Upstate University Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The Criminal Investigations Division has taken over the case, and detectives are working to determine what led to the shooting. Police have not yet released any details about possible suspects or motives. Investigators are reviewing witness statements, gathering surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses, and processing evidence collected at the scene. Officials said every piece of information could help them reconstruct the moments leading up to the deadly encounter.
The section of Midland and West Brighton Avenues was temporarily closed late Tuesday night as officers documented evidence and interviewed residents. Investigators remained at the scene for several hours, combing through the area to ensure no clues were overlooked. Police encouraged anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual to come forward, stressing that even small observations can make a significant difference in solving the case.
Residents of the southside neighborhood expressed grief and frustration following news of the shooting. Many community members gathered to offer condolences to Castillo’s family, describing him as a kind and hardworking man whose life was cut tragically short. “This kind of violence just tears families apart,” one neighbor said. “We need to look out for each other and bring peace back to our streets.”
Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact the Syracuse Police Criminal Investigations Division at (315) 442-5222. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers. Police noted that community cooperation remains one of the most effective tools in holding violent offenders accountable and providing closure for grieving families.
As the investigation continues, officials have increased patrols in the area to reassure residents and deter further violence. Community leaders are calling for unity and collaboration to address ongoing safety concerns. The Syracuse Police Department reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing justice for Joseph Castillo, vowing to keep the public informed as detectives follow every lead in their search for answers.