Wegmans Food Markets released a statement on July 28 regarding the death of employee J’Mere Ridley-Smith, who was fatally shot while working at the company’s distribution center in Gates over the weekend
Victim identified as J’Mere Ridley-Smith, 25
Gates Police Chief Rob Long said Ridley-Smith, 25, of Rochester, was loading pallets in a cooler unit inside the facility at 1500 Brooks Ave. when he was shot multiple times by a coworker. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officers responded around 4:15 p.m. Saturday, July 26, after receiving reports of a shooting at the distribution center. Police recovered multiple 9mm casings from the scene.
“It was a chaotic scene,” Long said during a July 28 press conference, adding that several coworkers witnessed the fatal incident.
Suspect apprehended in Tennessee
The suspect, Kyshonn Green, 32, of Gates, fled the scene before police arrived, Long said. Green, also a Wegmans employee, was apprehended without incident by the U.S. Marshals Service in Knoxville, Tennessee, around 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 27.
Authorities also recovered a loaded 9mm handgun when Green was taken into custody. He had fled New York shortly after the shooting. His intended destination is still unknown.
Green is expected to be extradited back to Monroe County for arraignment. Long said the specific charges—likely first- or second-degree murder—will be determined in consultation with the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office. No formal charges have been filed yet.
Wegmans responds to tragic incident
Wegmans spokesperson Deana Percassi addressed the tragedy during Monday’s press conference:
“We are grateful for the tireless efforts of law enforcement and their swift action in apprehending the suspect. As a valued member of our team, J’mere’s passing leaves a void in our hearts. He will be missed. To J’mere’s family, friends, and loved ones, the entire team at Wegmans sends our heartfelt support and care. We wish you peace and strength during this incredibly difficult time.”
Produce supply temporarily impacted
Due to the ongoing investigation at the warehouse, Wegmans confirmed that produce availability will be limited until mid-week. Stores impacted include Wegmans stores in the Rochester, Buffalo and Syracuse regions, as well as the company’s five stores in Massachusetts. The company did not say how long distribution operations may be affected.
Ongoing investigation
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Gates police are continuing their investigation to determine what led up to the incident. Chief Long said Green had no prior history with the Gates Police Department.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Wegmans issues statement after employee fatally shot at warehouse: Produce deliveries impacted
Reporting by Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
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