Gilberto Morales-Cruz Obituary, Death – Rochester police have identified the man killed in the city’s most recent homicide. Authorities confirmed that 68-year-old Gilberto Morales-Cruz lost his life after being shot Saturday afternoon in the Brown Square neighborhood. The incident occurred on Smith Street, close to Oak Street, where Morales-Cruz was struck by gunfire while on the sidewalk outside a nearby building.
According to police, the shooting took place in broad daylight, drawing immediate attention from residents and passersby in the area. Emergency responders were called to the scene, but despite their efforts, Morales-Cruz was pronounced dead shortly afterward. His death has since been classified as a homicide, marking yet another violent loss for the city.
Investigators have yet to make any arrests in connection with the case. Detectives with the Rochester Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit are actively pursuing leads and piecing together what led to the fatal shooting. Officers are reviewing potential witness accounts and gathering surveillance footage from the surrounding area in hopes of identifying the suspect or suspects responsible.
Police have not released information about possible motives or whether Morales-Cruz was specifically targeted. They emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and urged anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward. The lack of an arrest has left community members uneasy, with concerns about ongoing violence in their neighborhoods.
Morales-Cruz’s death is part of a troubling pattern the city has been facing this year. Authorities confirmed that he is the 22nd homicide victim in Rochester so far in 2025. The figure reflects the continued challenges law enforcement and city leaders face in addressing violent crime and ensuring public safety.
Community leaders and advocates have once again called for greater collaboration between residents, police, and local organizations to combat gun violence. The Brown Square neighborhood, like several other parts of Rochester, has seen its share of violent incidents, leaving many residents frustrated and fearful.
For Morales-Cruz’s family and loved ones, the shooting represents a devastating and unexpected loss. At 68 years old, he was among the older victims of gun violence in the city, highlighting how these tragedies can touch lives across all age groups. Support systems are being offered to the family as they cope with the aftermath of his sudden death.
Authorities stressed that public assistance is vital in moving the investigation forward. Anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area of Smith Street and Oak Street around the time of the shooting is encouraged to contact the Rochester Police Department. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers, providing an option for those who may be hesitant to come forward directly.
The investigation remains active, with law enforcement vowing to work diligently to find answers and bring justice for Morales-Cruz. In the meantime, his death adds to the city’s growing homicide statistics, underscoring the ongoing struggle Rochester faces in curbing gun-related violence.
