A man and a woman, along with their pet dog, were fatally shot in Manhattan, New York, on Friday evening. The victims, 57-year-old Jackie Billini and 42-year-old Levaughn Harvin, were discovered with gunshot wounds to the head near West 165 Street and Edgecombe Ave., as per local law enforcement reports.
The couple was immediately transported to Harlem Hospital, where they were later declared dead. Their pit bull, Zeus, was also a casualty in the tragic incident. The suspect, who is still at large, is believed to have had prior encounters with the victims. The motive behind the shooting is currently under investigation, with initial findings hinting at a possible dispute involving the dog.
Billini, an analyst for the state court system in the Bronx, and Harvin, her nephew, were reportedly targeted while walking near Highbridge Park. Witnesses at the scene reported hearing multiple gunshots before the suspect made his escape. The incident has left the community in a state of shock, with friends and neighbors remembering Billini as a compassionate individual who frequently assisted those in need.
In a previous incident in April, Billini was the victim of a home invasion where she was attacked by a man armed with a hammer. The suspect in that case, 31-year-old Lenue Moore, was charged with assault and attempted burglary. Neighbors reported that Billini had an ongoing conflict with Moore, who allegedly attempted to harm her dog earlier this year.
Harvin, as per neighbors, was asked by Billini to accompany her around the neighborhood due to her fear of Moore. The state office of Court Administration confirmed Billini’s employment and expressed their condolences, stating that her absence would be deeply felt.
The investigation into the tragic incident is still ongoing, with no arrests made so far. Authorities are urging anyone with information to reach out to Crime Stoppers.