Rochester Woman Kitana Kendrick Passes After Tragic Early Morning Shooting Near Pulaski Park
Rochester, New York — A quiet Sunday morning turned into heartbreak for a Rochester neighborhood after a young woman’s life was cut short in an act of senseless violence. The victim has been identified as 31-year-old Kitana Kendrick, a beloved member of the community whose life ended far too soon following a shooting that occurred around 2:45 a.m. on November 2, 2025, near Gothic Street and Pulaski Park.
According to the Rochester Police Department, officers were dispatched to the area after multiple 911 calls reported gunfire and a person lying in the street. When first responders arrived, they found Kendrick suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by paramedics, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have yet to confirm a motive or identify any suspects in the case, but detectives are actively pursuing leads and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby residences and businesses. The area, typically calm and residential, was cordoned off for hours as investigators gathered shell casings and interviewed potential witnesses who may have seen or heard something.
Kitana Kendrick was more than just another name in a police report—she was a daughter, sister, friend, and devoted mother whose radiant personality touched everyone who knew her. Friends describe her as a “light in every room,” someone who always found a way to make others smile even when she was facing her own struggles.
“She was a beautiful soul,” said longtime friend Tara Williamson, holding back tears during a makeshift vigil Sunday evening. “Kitana was someone who gave without expecting anything back. She was loyal, honest, and strong.”
Family members gathered near the scene of the tragedy to lay flowers and candles in her memory. A growing memorial of balloons, framed photographs, and handwritten notes now marks the spot on Gothic Street where her life was taken.
Her cousin, James Kendrick, described her as “the glue that kept the family together.” He added, “Kitana loved deeply and laughed loudly. She deserved the world, not this.”
Police have not indicated whether the shooting was targeted or random, and so far, no arrests have been made. Investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward by calling the Rochester Police Major Crimes Unit or using the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line. They stressed that even the smallest detail could help bring justice for Kitana and closure for her grieving family.
Neighbors reported hearing gunshots echo through the street just before 3 a.m., followed by the sound of a vehicle speeding away. “It was terrifying,” one resident said. “We heard about five or six pops, then silence. I looked out my window and saw the flashing lights minutes later.”
Kitana’s passing has reignited community conversations about the ongoing wave of gun violence in Rochester. The city, like many across the country, has seen a troubling increase in shootings over the past few years, leaving families devastated and neighborhoods fearful.
Local leaders have called for unity and accountability. Pastor Michael Reeves of the nearby New Hope Missionary Baptist Church said during Sunday’s prayer vigil, “We cannot let Kitana’s death be in vain. This community must come together, protect one another, and demand change.”
A GoFundMe page has since been created to help Kitana’s family cover funeral expenses and support her young child, who now faces life without their mother.
As police continue their investigation, the people of Rochester are left with heavy hearts — remembering Kitana Kendrick, a woman whose kindness and love will never be forgotten, and hoping that justice will soon be served.
Summary:
- Victim: Kitana Kendrick, 31
- Location: Gothic Street near Pulaski Park, Rochester, NY
- Date/Time: November 2, 2025, around 2:45 a.m.
- Incident: Shooting; victim pronounced dead at the scene
- Status: Investigation ongoing; no arrests yet
- Community Response: Vigil, memorial, and fundraiser established in her honor
