During a confrontation with a man believed to be using drugs in the vicinity, Joey Alexander, an Urban Alchemy worker, was shot.
This incident marks the first time a practitioner of Urban Alchemy has been killed while on duty.
The shooting occurred only weeks before Alexander was set to meet his son for their first reunion since his release from prison.
Authorities reported that the individual, identified as 42-year-old Edmund Bowen, drew a shotgun and shot Alexander at close range following a dispute.
Alexander requested the gunman to refrain from using drugs near the library due to the presence of women and children.
The suspect was not pleased with that. They had a brief exchange. From what I gather, he uttered, ‘f— Urban Alchemy,’ retrieved a shotgun from his bag, and fired it at him in the torso.
Sheriff’s deputies and police were nearby and responded to the scene.
Bowen has been taken into custody and is currently being held. A decision on charges is anticipated on Thursday, and prosecutors are expected to file a murder charge by the end of the week.
Established in 2018, the nonprofit focused on public safety in San Francisco is dedicated to providing second chances. Over 90% of its staff have previously been incarcerated, including Alexander, who spent several years at San Quentin.
Witnesses at the scene expressed shock and disbelief over the sudden violence. Many gathered outside the library, recalling Alexander’s efforts to help others in the community. As news of the shooting spread, local residents organized a vigil to honor Alexander’s memory. The incident has reignited discussions on drug use and safety in public spaces, prompting calls for increased support for community outreach programs. Community leaders are urging officials to take action to prevent further tragedies.
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