European Basketball Star Kinu Rochford Killed in Harlem Shooting During NYC Basketball Tournament, Gunman Still at Large

 Former professional basketball player Kinu Rochford was shot and killed during a Harlem basketball tournament in New York City. Two others were injured as police search for the gunman behind the deadly shooting.

Former professional basketball player Kinu Rochford, a beloved figure in New York City’s basketball community and a former European league standout, was tragically killed Friday night after gunfire erupted during a basketball tournament in Harlem.

The deadly shooting unfolded at approximately 10:20 p.m. on July 10, 2026, at the popular outdoor basketball courts behind the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Towers on Lenox Avenue near West 112th Street in Manhattan. Authorities said a large crowd had gathered for the tournament, known locally as the Kingdome, when a gunman suddenly opened fire.

Kinu Rochford Dies After Being Shot in the Head

Police said Rochford, 35, was sitting on the sidelines during the tournament when he was struck in the head by a bullet. Emergency responders rushed him to Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital, but doctors were unable to save him.

Two additional victims were also injured during the shooting:

• A 28-year-old man suffered a gunshot wound to the shin.
• A 22-year-old woman was struck in the right forearm.

Both victims were transported to Harlem Hospital, where they are expected to recover.

Investigators have not yet determined whether Rochford was the intended target of the attack.

Who Was Kinu Rochford?

Kinu Rochford was one of New York City’s most respected basketball players and enjoyed a successful career both domestically and internationally.

A native of Brooklyn’s Crown Heights neighborhood, Rochford starred at James Madison High School before continuing his basketball journey at Globe Institute of Technology and later Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU).

After graduating, Rochford launched a professional career in Europe in 2013. He played for Aris Leeuwarden in the Dutch Basketball League and later competed in the British Basketball League and professional leagues in Iceland before concluding his career in 2019.

Throughout his playing days, Rochford earned a reputation as a skilled forward and a fierce competitor who remained deeply connected to New York’s streetball scene.

Basketball Community Mourns the Loss

The basketball world quickly reacted with shock and sadness following news of Rochford’s death.

Fairleigh Dickinson University released a statement expressing its grief:

“FDU is devastated to hear of the tragic passing of former men’s basketball player Kinu Rochford. A standout Knight and leader, Rochford built a legacy in Hackensack.”

Youth basketball organization HoopdreamsNYC also paid tribute, describing Rochford as one of New York City’s streetball legends.

The organization wrote:

“Kinu lost his life due to senseless violence while playing the game he loved at the Kingdome. He was one of NYC Streetball’s greatest players.”

Friends, former teammates, and members of the basketball community have flooded social media with tributes honoring Rochford’s achievements and impact on countless young athletes.

Crime Scene Leaves Community Shaken

On Saturday morning, evidence of the previous night’s violence remained visible at the basketball courts. Blood stains could still be seen near the playing area, while discarded cups, bottles, and debris surrounded the concrete bleachers.

Witnesses described scenes of panic as spectators and players scrambled for safety when shots rang out.

The gunman fled immediately after the shooting and remains at large.

NYPD Launches Manhunt

The New York Police Department (NYPD) has launched an intensive investigation into the deadly shooting.

Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby buildings and speaking with witnesses in an effort to identify and locate the shooter.

Authorities have not announced a motive, and investigators are exploring all possibilities, including whether the shooting may have been targeted.

No arrests have been made.

Renewed Concerns Over Gun Violence in New York City

The killing of Kinu Rochford comes amid growing concerns over gun violence at public gatherings in New York City.

The incident occurred just days after another high-profile shooting in Coney Island, where eight people, including four children, were wounded after a gunman allegedly opened fire at a family barbecue.

Community leaders and residents are once again calling for increased security measures and stronger efforts to combat gun violence in neighborhoods across the city.

The death of Kinu Rochford has left New York’s basketball community grieving the loss of a player remembered not only for his talent on the court but also for his leadership and dedication to the game he loved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who was Kinu Rochford?
Kinu Rochford was a former professional basketball player from Brooklyn who played in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Iceland. He was also a well-known figure in New York City’s streetball community.

Where did the shooting happen?
The shooting occurred at an outdoor basketball tournament at the Kingdome courts behind the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Towers on Lenox Avenue in Harlem, Manhattan.

How did Kinu Rochford die?
Police said Rochford was shot in the head while sitting on the sidelines during the tournament. He later died at Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital.

Were other people injured?
Yes. A 28-year-old man and a 22-year-old woman suffered non-life-threatening gunshot wounds and are expected to survive.

Has anyone been arrested?
No. As of Saturday, July 11, 2026, no arrests had been announced, and the suspected gunman remains at large.

What is the motive behind the shooting?
Investigators have not determined a motive and have not confirmed whether Rochford was specifically targeted. The investigation remains ongoing.