Holyoke’s mayor discusses efforts to combat violence following deadly shooting

HOLYOKE, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - “The dreams of a young couple had died along with their baby when a man drew a gun and fired recklessly at a man who they were fighting,” said Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia.

A daytime shooting in downtown Holyoke took a tragic turn on Wednesday, claiming the life of an infant and leaving the mother in critical condition.

The 29-year-old pregnant woman was caught in the crossfire while riding the PVTA bus.

Doctors delivered her child in an attempt to save the baby’s life but the infant did not survive.

LEARN MORE: Infant dead, others injured in Holyoke shooting

On Thursday, Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia held an emotional press conference vowing to evoke a positive change in the city.

“We are drafting a plan that will need city council support, it will strengthen surveillance and enforcement on our streets,” said Garcia.

In light of Wednesday’s tragedy, the grief-stricken mayor, along with support from the governor’s office, proposing a new public safety plan.

“These ideas could include things like foot and bike patrol, traffic patrol, and city-wide cameras and also a special assignment detail specifically tackling criminal activity. I expect this effort to work in tandem with our existing efforts out in the community,” said Garcia.

“Unfortunately sometimes from tragedy, most times, comes change. Today, we’re really here to emphasize we are developing a plan with all our partners and to citizens of Holyoke the change they’re asking for is coming,” said Holyoke Police Chief David Pratt.

Garcia says he can’t do it alone, he’s asking for the public to join in his fight against gun violence in the city.

“I call on the city of Holyoke to unite, to join us in this monumental task of healing and renewal. with that being said, watch what’s happening in your neighborhoods. Call, or text when you see something that’s not right. Work together with your neighbors and demand the expectation you want for your neighborhoods and your community because I can’t do this alone,” said Garcia.

With support from the police department and the community, Garcia is hopeful for brighter days ahead for the city.

“Please don’t lose faith and keep Holyoke the city in which that beautiful lost baby would have grown strong to love and be proud of,” said Garcia.

Two Holyoke men were charged in connection with yesterday’s murder. 22-year-old Alejandro Ramos was arraigned in court earlier today, he is being held without the right to bail.