June 17, 2025 BRONX, NY – A promising life was tragically cut short in the Bronx over the weekend, as a U.S. Navy veteran, 27-year-old Keino Campbell, was fatally shot in what authorities are investigating as a road rage incident. New York City police have since arrested and charged 20-year-old Michael Aracena with murder, manslaughter, and a weapon charge in connection with Campbell's death.

The fatal shooting occurred Saturday at the intersection of Givan Avenue and Palmer Avenue in Eastchester. According to NYPD investigators, Campbell was found inside his gray 2012 Infiniti sedan, having sustained three gunshot wounds to the chest. While police have labeled the incident as road rage, specific details surrounding the altercation that led to the shooting remain under wraps.

A Mother's Heartbreak: "He Wanted to Make the World Better"

For Campbell's family, the news has brought immeasurable grief. His mother, Suzette Thomas, shared that her son was on his way to his sister's house after attending a car show when the senseless act of violence unfolded.

"I want people to remember my son as a humble person, one to do the best for the world," Thomas tearfully stated. "He's always there for his siblings, anyone he comes across."

Both Thomas and Campbell's aunt, Vermaline McCracon, spoke of a young man with a bright future ahead of him. Campbell had plans to enroll in school next month to pursue a career as a mechanical engineer. "My son finally realized what he wanted to do. He said he could open up his own business, because he doesn't want his family in poverty," Thomas said, struggling through her tears. "And then all of this happening now, it's just too much."

She recounted her last conversation with her son just hours before his death, a simple exchange about seeing him the next day and cooking him his favorite oxtails.

Calls for Change: Tackling Gun Violence and Investing in Youth

The devastation felt by Campbell's family has spurred a fervent call for change. His father expressed a plea for stronger gun laws and urged individuals to think critically before resorting to violence. "Gun violence has to stop, it's not just him," he said. "I wish the shooter could have took a better approach and think more before he uses his weapon."

Keino Campbell - Credit Campbell's Family

Campbell's mother echoed this sentiment, stating, "They took a life, what was meant to make the world better. They just took it out and now it's just pure darkness for me."

McCracon described her nephew as a generous, intelligent, and humorous individual who was known for being a peacemaker and shying away from confrontations. "That's why this is so hard for us, because we couldn't imagine that someone would take him from us, because he doesn't put himself in positions to be taken from us," she lamented.

Beyond stricter gun control, the family is also advocating for increased extracurricular activities for children and young adults, aiming to expose them to healthier lifestyles and steer them away from the dangers of the streets.

Friends and family of Keino Campbell were expected to gather Monday night on Grace Avenue to honor his memory at a vigil. The community now mourns the loss of a devoted veteran and a promising young man, while grappling with the devastating impact of gun violence on New York City's streets.