HVCC Student Shot Dead At Age 20
By Lomie Blum, Broadcast Editor
On August 23, Alonte Shipp, a sophomore, and running back for men’s varsity football at Hudson Valley Community College was fatally shot in front of his Long Island residence.
The 20-year-old was known for his NFL ambitions, art and hero-like status at his previous school, Wyandanch Memorial High School.
“Alonte aspired to do great things. He was an outstanding athlete with the talent and dream of someday playing in the NFL. He was a member of the track team where his speed was in the spotlight,” the Wyandanch School District wrote in a statement.
“His talents were not just limited to the athletic field, where he stood out above the rest. He was creative and an amazing artist who inspired others to achieve their goals. He was respectful of others and well-liked by his peers,” they added.
“The Wyandanch School District Board of Education, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gina Talbert, administrators and staff extend their deepest sympathies and condolences to the family and friends of Alonte Shipp, a graduate of Wyandanch Memorial High School, who tragically passed away on Monday, Aug. 23,” the statement read.
Peers at Wyandanch Memorial High School gathered for a vigil honoring Mr. Shipp.
“As we grieve this sad and tragic loss, we will continue to keep Alonte’s family in our thoughts during this difficult time,” the statement further read.
Former high school principal, Paul Sibblies, took to Facebook to share his sympathies.
“Here is a young man that has been through so much but overcame it all to attend college. His desire was to prove people wrong about his character. Alonte Shipp will forever mean something to me,” Mr. Sibblies wrote.
“He was respectful, talented and loving to his family. My heart hurts to know someone cut his life short for senseless reasons,” Sibblies added.
According to reports, Shipp was with a female friend around 4:40 in the morning when he was murdered.
Almost 10 years ago, Shipp’s 15-year-old brother was also shot and killed in front of the same house. His killer has not been found.
Mr. Shipp’s sister, Vonteshia Napper, shared the personal effect of her loss in an interview with CBS2 news.
“Glad I got to spend the time I did with him. I’m glad he was with me the night they took him away from me,” Napper said.
“He was just the best. I love my little brother, and I’m going to miss him. I’m truly going to miss him,” Napper added.
On August 25, Everette Aitcheson of North Amityville was arrested. On the 26, Homicide detectives announced that they charged Mr. Aitcheson with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He may face additional charges according to prosecutors.
Aitcheson was offered to pay $500,000 cash bail or a $1 million bond.
According to prosecutors, there is video evidence showing that Aitcheson parked his car near Shipp’s home waiting to confront an ex-girlfriend who was with Shipp at the time. Earlier that day, Aitcheson allegedly called that woman 18 times.
On Shipp’s arrival with the woman, Aitcheson pulled out a gun and Shipp ran inside and grabbed his gun leading to an exchange of fire. Shipp was shot 9 times and passed away later in the hospital.
After the prosecution hearing, Shipp’s mother Lakeicha Sexton said, “I don’t have the words to say how I feel right now.”
Aitcheson could face up to 15 years in prison. However, he maintains his innocence.