ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Heartbreak has swept across Rochester as the community comes to terms with the tragic death of 33-year-old Willie Mayhall, whose life was violently cut short on the city’s north side Tuesday evening. Loved ones describe him as a devoted father, cherished family member, and loyal friend whose presence brought warmth and steadiness to everyone around him.
The incident unfolded at approximately 6:45 p.m. when Rochester Police responded to reports of a shooting at a gas station near St. Paul Street and Norton Street. Officers arriving on scene discovered Willie sitting inside the driver’s seat of his parked car at the gas pumps, suffering from a gunshot wound to his upper body. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators say Willie was alone in his vehicle when an unidentified suspect approached on foot, opened fire multiple times, and fled the area. The gunman remains at large, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward as the search for answers continues.
As detectives piece together what happened, the community is focusing on the man Willie was—not the violence that claimed his life.
Family members remember Willie as someone who treasured time spent with those he loved. Whether celebrating holidays, cooking out with relatives, or sharing late-night conversations, he approached every moment with gratitude and joy. His laughter could fill a room, and his kindness made others feel supported and understood.
Friends describe him as dependable, genuine, and fiercely loyal—a man who stood by the people he cared for without hesitation. He was known for offering encouragement, humor, or a helping hand whenever he saw someone in need. His generosity and compassion were constants in his life, touching countless people along the way.
The sudden loss has left a deep ache across Rochester. Those who knew him say the world feels heavier without Willie’s steady presence and the sense of comfort he brought to the people around him.
As investigators push toward justice, the community continues to hold out hope that answers will come and that Willie’s family will find the closure they so desperately need.
In honoring Willie Mayhall, Rochester remembers a man defined not by the tragic circumstances of his death, but by the love, loyalty, and light he brought into the world. His legacy endures in the memories he leaves behind and in the hearts forever changed by knowing him.
May he rest in peace.