Concerns over traffic safety near Columbus Elementary School and a tragic police shooting incident dominated discussions at a recent government meeting in Utica.

A local resident raised alarms about hazardous traffic conditions on Omry Drive, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times. The individual reported reaching out to various officials, including the mayor's office and local law enforcement, but noted a lack of responses, with only one acknowledgment from community advocate Lacresha Hunt. The resident called for a meeting with key city officials, including the mayor and school district administrators, to address these pressing safety issues and prevent potential accidents involving children.

In a more somber segment of the meeting, Chie Ward, mother of 13-year-old Nyamwe, spoke out about her son's fatal shooting by Utica police officers in June. Ward has filed a notice of claim against the city, alleging multiple civil rights violations, including wrongful death and excessive force. She recounted the tragic events leading to her son's death, emphasizing the emotional toll on her family, particularly on Nyamwe's younger sister, who struggles to understand her brother's absence.

Ward's testimony highlighted broader concerns regarding police accountability and community trust, as she demanded justice for her son and called for systemic changes within the Utica Police Department. The meeting underscored the urgent need for dialogue between community members and city officials to address both traffic safety and police conduct, reflecting a community grappling with grief and a desire for accountability.