Mayor Gusciora’s Statement Regarding Homicide on Sunday

Trenton, N.J. — On Sunday night, our city suffered a terrible tragedy. At approximately 11:38 p.m., Maicol Metzler Chic, a 29-year-old man originally from Guatemala, was walking home along Whitaker Avenue with two other individuals when he was approached by two men and shot. Tragically, Maicol died from his injuries.

This marks the sixth homicide in our city this year, and every life lost to violence is a loss for our entire community.

Today, I had the opportunity to visit Maicol’s family. On behalf of the City of Trenton, I personally expressed our prayers and our support during this time of unimaginable grief.

The investigation remains ongoing and is being handled by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force. I have asked the Trenton Police Department to increase its presence and patrols in this area to help protect our residents and prevent further acts of violence.

I have also directed the City’s social services team to reach out to Maicol’s family and provide whatever assistance may be available to them during this difficult time.

In addition, I spoke with Guatemalan Consul General Hugo Hun Archila to offer the City’s assistance and discuss the necessary arrangements for Maicol’s remains to be returned to Guatemala.

To our community, and especially to the members of our Guatemalan and Latino communities here in Trenton, I want to say something very clearly: You are part of this city. You deserve to feel safe walking our streets, returning home from work, and going about your daily lives. Violence against any member of our community is unacceptable.

I ask all of our residents to remain aware of their surroundings and to immediately report suspicious activity by calling 911.

And if anyone has information that could help investigators solve this crime, please contact Detective Zachary Ortman of the Mercer County Homicide Task Force at 609-273-2451. Tips may also be submitted anonymously through the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office website