San Francisco, CA – A San Francisco street ambassador was tragically killed after confronting a man using drugs outside a local library, officials reported. The incident has shaken the community and highlighted the risks faced by volunteers working to keep neighborhoods safe.
Incident Overview
Joey Alexander, a 60-year-old Urban Alchemy street ambassador, was fatally shot by a shotgun-wielding man while on his routine patrol outside the San Francisco Main Library. The confrontation occurred after Alexander asked the man to stop using illicit substances near the library, where children were present.
Urban Alchemy spokesperson Jess Montejano said, “The suspect didn’t like that. They exchanged some words, the suspect pulled a shotgun out of his bag, and shot him in the torso.”
Suspect Identification and Arrest
Police identified the suspect as 42-year-old Edmund Bowen, who was arrested on Saturday and booked on murder charges. Court records indicate Bowen currently faces a homicide investigation.
Victim Background
Alexander had served 23 years in prison before joining Urban Alchemy two years ago. According to his brother, Marvin Alexander, Joey loved his work and dedicated himself to helping the community:
“He said you have to really know how to deal with these people. You can’t tell nobody what to do, you just ask them.”
Alexander’s role involved patrolling some of San Francisco’s toughest neighborhoods, aiming to deter crime and support vulnerable residents.
Community Impact
The shooting left children near the library traumatized and sparked fear among other Urban Alchemy workers. Montejano said, “There’s definitely some fear amongst Urban Alchemy practitioners right now. It’s very easy to see themselves in Mr. Alexander.”
Ronald Carter, a close friend and fellow Urban Alchemy worker, described Alexander as a quiet and humble man who never raised his voice. Marvin Alexander added:
“Everybody is going to miss him dearly.”
Official Statements
San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie issued a statement:
“Our ambassadors dedicate their lives to the work of helping those on the street. Joey Alexander gave his life for it.”
The incident underscores the dangers faced by volunteers attempting to protect communities from drugs and crime, even while performing routine duties.
Legal Proceedings
Bowen is currently in custody and will face court proceedings for murder charges. Police and local authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Takeaway
The loss of Joey Alexander has left a deep mark on the San Francisco community and serves as a sobering reminder of the risks street ambassadors face daily while striving to maintain public safety.
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