The New Haven community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of 15-year-old Kaiden Phillips, a Hill Regional Career High School student and basketball player, who was fatally shot on Saturday night.
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Police Chief Karl Jacobson confirmed Phillips’ identity, describing him as “a good kid by all accounts.” Authorities said the shooting happened around 7:55 p.m. near Bassett Street and Dixwell Avenue after a dispute between Kaiden and another individual escalated into gunfire. Investigators believe the incident may be linked to ongoing altercations that have followed recent high school football games.
According to Chief Jacobson, the teen was likely shot on the grounds of Lincoln-Bassett Community School, which was closed at the time. He attempted to flee the scene but was later found unresponsive. Despite emergency efforts, Kaiden did not survive.
The loss has shaken classmates, teachers, and residents throughout the city. Mayor Justin Elicker called the tragedy “devastating,” noting, “A young kid who had his whole life ahead of him.” City officials convened an emergency meeting Monday morning with police, youth service providers, and community leaders to discuss steps to prevent further violence and potential retaliation.
“Overall, shootings have decreased in New Haven,” Elicker said, “but incidents like this feel like a devastating setback.”
This marks the city’s fourth homicide victim under the age of 45 this year and the second 15-year-old killed in 2025, following the April death of Aaron Robinson.
To his family, teammates, and friends, Kaiden is remembered as far more than a statistic. He was a beloved son, a dedicated student, and a talented young athlete with dreams that were tragically cut short. His death leaves an irreplaceable void in the community he called home.