Hartford Police Identify Cynthia Jiminez-Pacheco and Joel Martinez as Victims in Fatal Franklin Avenue Shooting

Hartford, CT — Hartford police have identified the two victims fatally shot in a tragic early morning incident that unfolded Sunday on Franklin Avenue, leaving the community shaken and two families devastated. The victims have been named as 33-year-old Cynthia Jiminez-Pacheco and 32-year-old Joel Martinez, both residents of Hartford.

According to the Hartford Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire around 3:15 a.m. Sunday in the 500 block of Franklin Avenue, a typically quiet neighborhood lined with local shops and apartments. When officers arrived, they discovered two individuals suffering from multiple gunshot wounds inside a vehicle. Despite emergency medical efforts at the scene and rapid transport to Saint Francis Hospital, both victims were later pronounced dead.

Police quickly secured the area, launching an intensive investigation led by the department’s Major Crimes and Crime Scene Divisions. Detectives spent much of the morning canvassing the area, interviewing witnesses, and collecting shell casings and other forensic evidence. Investigators believe the shooting may have stemmed from a targeted altercation rather than a random act of violence, though the precise motive remains under investigation.

Hartford Police Lt. Aaron Boisvert stated that detectives are pursuing several leads and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and residences. “This was a tragic and violent event that took two lives far too soon,” Boisvert said. “We are working around the clock to identify those responsible and bring justice for Cynthia and Joel.”

Neighbors described being startled awake by a rapid succession of gunshots, followed by the sound of screeching tires. “It was terrifying — I heard at least five shots,” said one nearby resident. “When I looked out the window, police were everywhere. You could feel the sadness in the air.”

Both victims were well known in the community. Friends and relatives have expressed deep sorrow, remembering Cynthia as a loving mother, sister, and friend, and Joel as a hardworking, good-natured man who always had a smile on his face. Social media has since filled with heartfelt tributes and photos of the pair, with many calling for peace and unity in the wake of the tragedy.

One family friend wrote, “Cynthia was full of love and laughter. She didn’t deserve this. We just want justice for her and Joel. They both had so much life ahead of them.”

City leaders and community advocates have also spoken out, emphasizing the urgent need to address ongoing gun violence in Hartford — an issue that has continued to claim lives and disrupt families across neighborhoods. The city has seen an increase in fatal shootings in recent months, prompting calls for greater investment in youth programs, conflict resolution initiatives, and community-based intervention strategies.

As police continue their investigation, officers are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact Hartford Police Major Crimes at (860) 757-4179 or Crime Stoppers at (860) 722-TIPS. Anonymous tips are welcome and could prove crucial in helping investigators bring closure to the grieving families.

A candlelight vigil for Cynthia Jiminez-Pacheco and Joel Martinez is expected to be held later this week on Franklin Avenue, where loved ones will gather to honor their memory and call for an end to the violence that has left yet another void in Hartford’s heart.

Rest in peace, Cynthia and Joel — gone too soon, but forever remembered.