Sheriff Shittu killing: NYPD launches manhunt after Nigerian man shot dead at East Flatbush nightclub in Brooklyn, family seeks justice

Sheriff Shittu, a 30-year-old Nigerian, was shot dead at a nightclub in the East Flatbush area of Brooklyn, prompting the New York City Police Department to launch a manhunt for the suspect.

Also read: NYPD hero dies at home after courageous battle with pancreatitis

The shooting occurred in the early hours of February 14 at Quilox Lounge on Church Avenue near East 95th Street.

According to police reports cited by Gothamist, the victim was shot in the head and later pronounced dead at Brookdale University Hospital and Medical Centre.

Authorities said the suspect, last seen wearing a black jacket and white trousers, fled in an unknown direction. The motive for the shooting remains under investigation.

Shittu’s death marks the first gun-violence fatality in the precinct this year, though five individuals had already been shot as of February 15, 2025.

Salem Shittu, the victim’s younger brother, described Sheriff Shittu as kind-hearted and ambitious, with hopes of making a mark in the fashion industry.

“We’re trying to be strong right now, but we’re really worried about getting justice for him,” he said.

The brothers had attended a birthday celebration at the nightclub when an argument between Shittu and another patron escalated.

Salem Shittu criticised the club’s security procedures, suggesting inadequate screening allowed a gun into the venue.

The killing has left the Shittu family grieving and demanding accountability.

Also read: Migrant accused of ‘seriously disfiguring’ nursing student as grim details emerge

The incident comes less than a week after another Nigerian, 20-year-old Khaleed Oladipo, was stabbed to death in Leicester, highlighting concerns over violence affecting Nigerian nationals abroad.