Twelve year old girl, Genesis Rincon, Was Killed on July 4th Weekend
(Paterson) — Assemblyman Benjie Wimberly released the following statement regarding the weekend shooting of Paterson native, 12-year-old Genesis Rincon, who was struck and killed by stray gunfire in a Paterson neighborhood:
“Gun violence is taking over our neighborhoods. It endangers our homes, our families and our livelihoods in Paterson. Each time we lose an innocent child to senseless depravity, we lose hold on the communities we were raised in and have worked to build over generations.
“My family and I extend our most heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Genesis Rincon. As a father of four boys, one of which is twelve, I would never be able to understand the magnitude of loss Genesis’ loved ones are feeling now. Our prayers and support are with you. I implore any Paterson resident who has information that will lead to justice for Genesis to please come forward or call into the hotline immediately.
“There are far too many ailments plaguing our communities and fueling restless and increasingly violent behavior that we unfortunately can’t lay blame on one societal ill. In addition to putting more cops on the beat and strengthening police presence in our communities, we have to continue to push for more jobs, stricter guidelines at drug treatment centers, stronger gun control measures, fully funding education and restoring vital community programs. For the future of our children and all Paterson residents, we must continue to choose hope over despair and take the necessary action to reclaim our communities.”