WILMINGTON, Delaware — The city of Wilmington was once again shaken by senseless violence over the weekend, as authorities confirmed the identity of a young man who lost his life to gunfire in the city’s Ninth Ward neighborhood. Jamir Leggett, 23, was fatally shot on Saturday night, leaving a community heartbroken and pleading for an end to the ongoing cycle of tragedy.
According to the Wilmington Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire shortly after 9:30 p.m. Upon arrival, they found the 23-year-old suffering from multiple gunshot wounds on a street corner near the 900 block of North Pine Street. Emergency medical personnel rushed to the scene, but despite efforts to save him, Leggett was pronounced dead at the site.
Investigators quickly secured the area, collecting evidence and canvassing for witnesses who might provide information on what led to the deadly confrontation. Police have not yet released any details about potential suspects or motives, but they confirmed that the investigation remains active. Detectives are urging anyone with knowledge of the shooting to come forward.
Residents of the Ninth Ward described hearing multiple shots before chaos erupted. Some rushed outside to find the young man lying on the pavement, as sirens filled the air moments later. For many who live nearby, the incident was a painful reminder of the growing toll gun violence continues to take on Wilmington’s neighborhoods.
Family members and friends of Leggett gathered at the scene on Sunday morning, leaving candles, flowers, and photographs as they mourned the sudden and violent loss. Loved ones described him as kind-hearted, loyal, and full of ambition — a young man with dreams of creating a better future. His death, they said, has left an irreplaceable void that words cannot fill.
Local community leaders and clergy members expressed deep concern over the persistent violence affecting Wilmington’s youth. They called for unity, peace, and stronger outreach programs to steer young people away from cycles of retaliation and despair. “We can’t afford to lose another life to bullets,” one pastor said at a makeshift vigil. “Every name added to the list of victims represents a broken promise — a future stolen.”
Police Chief Wilfredo Campos released a brief statement expressing condolences to the family and reaffirming the department’s commitment to bringing those responsible to justice. He emphasized that collaboration between law enforcement and the community remains crucial to addressing violent crime. “We are determined to find answers and ensure accountability,” he said.
In recent months, Wilmington has experienced a troubling rise in shootings, prompting renewed discussions among city officials about intervention strategies and community policing initiatives. Programs aimed at conflict resolution, youth engagement, and job creation are being reviewed in hopes of preventing more tragedies like this one.
As night fell again over the Ninth Ward, candles flickered along the street where Leggett’s life ended. The soft glow stood in contrast to the violence that claimed him — a solemn symbol of remembrance and resilience. Friends held one another, whispering prayers for peace and protection.
For Wilmington, the loss of Jamir Leggett is not just another statistic. It is a deeply personal tragedy — one that underscores the urgent need for healing, compassion, and collective action. His memory now joins a growing call for change, echoing through a city weary of mourning its young.