Bridgeport Shooting Update — An 18-year-old man has died after a fatal shooting on Catherine Street in Bridgeport on Monday evening, according to the Bridgeport Police Department. The victim has been identified as Leon Richardson, who was pronounced dead at the scene after officers responded to reports of gunfire, marking the city’s fifth homicide of 2026.
Police said dispatchers received multiple 911 calls at approximately 6:45 p.m. reporting gunfire in the area of Catherine Street, along with reports of a man bleeding inside a vehicle. Responding officers arrived to find a Honda parked on Catherine Street with Richardson seated in the driver’s seat.
Investigators determined that Richardson had suffered a gunshot wound to the head. Despite the emergency response, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities said the fatal shooting occurred on Catherine Street, roughly midway between Washington Avenue and Harral Avenue.
Crime scene investigators remained at the location for several hours, processing evidence and interviewing potential witnesses as detectives worked to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The investigation is being led by the Bridgeport Police Department’s homicide unit.
Authorities have not released information regarding a possible suspect or a motive, and no arrests have been announced. Police also have not disclosed additional details about the events leading up to the shooting.
According to investigators, Richardson’s death marks Bridgeport’s fifth homicide of 2026. Detectives said the investigation remains active as they continue to pursue leads and identify those responsible for the deadly shooting.
The Bridgeport Police Department is asking anyone with information about the incident to contact Detective Thomas Harper at (203) 581-5239 or submit anonymous tips through the Bridgeport Police Tips Line at (203) 576-TIPS. Officials are urging anyone who witnessed the shooting or has information that could assist investigators to come forward as the homicide investigation continues.
