Second suspect arrested in Brooklyn baby's fatal shooting

Matthew Rodriguez, 18, is accused of involvement in the stray-bullet killing of 7-month-old Kaori Patterson-Moore.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 6:07pm

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A second suspect, 18-year-old Matthew Rodriguez, has been arrested in Pennsylvania and charged in connection with the fatal shooting of 7-month-old Kaori Patterson-Moore in Brooklyn. The infant was killed by a stray bullet in what police believe was a gang-related incident.

Why it matters

The tragic death of baby Kaori has sparked outrage in the community and renewed calls for action to address gun violence and protect innocent lives. The arrests of two suspects may provide some closure, but the underlying issues of gang activity and access to firearms remain pressing concerns.

The details

According to police, Rodriguez is believed to be linked to the shooting that killed Kaori. The infant was struck by a stray bullet while in her stroller on a Brooklyn street. Authorities say the shooting was likely gang-related, though the investigation is ongoing.

  • The shooting occurred on April 2, 2026.
  • Rodriguez was arrested in Pennsylvania on April 4, 2026.

The players

Matthew Rodriguez

An 18-year-old male arrested in Pennsylvania and charged in connection with the fatal shooting of 7-month-old Kaori Patterson-Moore.

Kaori Patterson-Moore

A 7-month-old baby girl who was killed by a stray bullet in what police believe was a gang-related incident in Brooklyn.

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What they’re saying

“This is a tragedy that truly breaks your heart. A baby, an innocent child, lost her life in a senseless act of violence.”

— Keechant Sewell, New York City Police Commissioner

What’s next

Authorities say the investigation is ongoing, and they are working to determine if Rodriguez had any direct involvement in the shooting or if he was connected to the suspected gang activity.

The takeaway

The fatal shooting of baby Kaori has devastated the community and renewed urgent calls to address gun violence and protect innocent lives. While the arrests provide some progress, the underlying issues of gang activity and access to firearms remain pressing concerns that require comprehensive solutions.