By Eileen Buckley
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-836530.mp3
Buffalo, NY – A University at Buffalo graduate was shot to death early Sunday morning. 23 year old Javon Jackson of the Bronx was out celebrating his graduation from UB when he was shot on Main Street near Lisbon.
Jackson graduated from UB Saturday with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. Buffalo Police Chief of Detectives Dennis Richards says they are looking for the gunman and three other black males. The victim was shot around 3:15 Sunday morning.
It is believed the gunman walked up behind Jackson near Main and Lisbon. One of four men fired at least two shots from the gun at close range striking Jackson. He was standing near Jim's Steak out when the incident occurred.
Police say the are looking into the possibility that a skirmish earlier in the bar had any connection to the shooting. Jackson was rushed to ECMC where he was pronounced dead.
The victim's family was already in Buffalo to attend his graduation Saturday. "His father and mother were so proud to have their son graduate from college. Now, they are distraught beyond words, and questioning why anyone would kill their son," said Dennis J. Richards, chief of detectives.
The UB community is has reached out to Jackson's family. UB president John Simpson says the University is deeply saddened by this tragic loss and their hearts go out to the victim's family and friends.
A moment of silence was observed in honor of Jackson at today's UB General Commencement ceremony at Alumni Arena.
Police are looking into the motive, and circumstances surrounding the murder, and asking for anyone with information to call the TIPCALL number - 847-2255. The University at Buffalo Police Department is assisting the Buffalo Police Department in the investigation, and UB staff members are providing support to Jackson's family. Students who may need support are encouraged to call the UB Counseling Services at (716) 645-2720.
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