A Group Altercation Escalates to Gunfire at Irondequoit Beach State Park
In the early hours of July 13, 2025, a peaceful summer night at Irondequoit Beach State Park turned chaotic when gunfire erupted near the park’s restroom building. Responding to reports of shots fired, the New York State Police and Irondequoit Police Department arrived at the scene at approximately 3:53 a.m. to find evidence of violence: a 9mm shell casing and a gunshot impact. Witnesses described a group altercation that escalated into two gunshots, shattering the calm of the night.
A vehicle seen leaving the area without headlights was stopped nearby, leading to the detention of three individuals. Among them, 22-year-old Dontrell Dontrey Hughes of Rochester, NY, was arrested and now faces multiple charges, including criminal possession of a weapon and reckless endangerment.
The Arrest and Charges
During the investigation, police discovered a loaded, unregistered 9mm handgun in the vehicle. Hughes was charged with the following:
- Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree (C Felony)
- Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree: Ammunition Feeding Device (D Felony)
- Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree: Ghost Gun (A Misdemeanor)
- Reckless Endangerment in the First Degree (D Felony)
Hughes was processed without incident and transported to Monroe County Jail for arraignment. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities working to piece together the events leading up to the shooting.
The Growing Concern Over Ghost Guns
One of the charges against Hughes highlights a troubling trend: the possession of a “ghost gun.” These untraceable firearms, often assembled from kits or 3D-printed parts, have become a significant concern for law enforcement. Ghost guns lack serial numbers, making them nearly impossible to trace and a favorite among those seeking to evade firearm regulations.
According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), ghost gun recoveries have surged in recent years, posing a unique challenge to public safety. The incident at Irondequoit Beach underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations and public awareness about the dangers of these weapons.
Community Impact and Public Safety
The shooting at Irondequoit Beach State Park has left the local community shaken. Parks are meant to be safe spaces for families and individuals to enjoy nature, not scenes of violence. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance and the role of law enforcement in maintaining public safety.
Local leaders and law enforcement agencies are urging residents to report suspicious activity and work together to prevent future incidents. “We rely on the community to be our eyes and ears,” said a spokesperson for the New York State Police. “Public safety is a shared responsibility.”
What’s Next?
As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on uncovering the full story behind the altercation and ensuring justice is served. Hughes’ arrest is a step toward accountability, but questions remain about the circumstances that led to the shooting and whether others may be involved.
The incident also raises broader questions about gun control and the effectiveness of current laws in preventing such events. Advocates for stricter gun laws argue that incidents like this highlight the need for comprehensive reform, including measures to address the proliferation of ghost guns.
A Call to Action
The shooting at Irondequoit Beach State Park is a sobering reminder of the challenges communities face in addressing gun violence. As the investigation unfolds, it’s crucial for residents to stay informed and engaged. Whether through supporting local law enforcement, advocating for policy changes, or fostering community dialogue, everyone has a role to play in creating safer neighborhoods.
If you have any information about this incident, please contact the New York State Police or the Irondequoit Police Department. Together, we can work toward a future where parks and public spaces remain sanctuaries of peace and safety.
