Waterbury Mourns: 17-Year-Old Carizma Fox Fatally Shot, Homicide Investigation Underway
WATERBURY, Conn. — The Waterbury community is in mourning after 17-year-old Carizma Fox was fatally shot during an early-morning disturbance on Friday, July 11, 2025, on Willow Street. Police have launched a homicide investigation into this heartbreaking incident
📌 Timeline of Events
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2:48 a.m., police were called to the 100 block of Willow Street following reports of gunfire.
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Officers found Carizma with a gunshot wound; she was transported to Saint Mary’s Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries
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A preliminary investigation indicates the tragedy followed a confrontation among a group gathered outside, according to Waterbury PD
💔 Family & Community Response
Carizma’s mother, Ella Saunders, conveyed her profound grief, compounded by the loss of her son nearly four years ago under similar circumstances
“By the time I got down the street… my baby was just laying on the ground.”
Grandfather Carlton Fox remembered her warmth and daily check-ins:
“What are you doing, Pop Pop? I’m just checking in on you.”
A candlelit vigil was held near Deerpath Park, and local faith groups and schools—like the Enlightenment School—offered grief counseling and support to students
🌟 Carizma’s Life & Legacy
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A rising senior at Enlightenment School, known for her caring nature and bright smile
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Loved by family and friends, her presence touched many—especially those who celebrated life and remembered her brother that evening
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Foregone future: her promising life cut short just as she was coming into her own.
🔍 Investigation & Call for Justice
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Waterbury Police are actively investigating and have identified this as a homicide
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There are no arrests yet; the gunman remains at large
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Community members are urged to share any information with the Waterbury PD Detective Bureau (203‑574‑6941) or anonymously via Crime Stoppers at (203‑755‑1234)
🕯️ Honoring Carizma
In response to her death, the community has rallied with:
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Vigils and memorials, celebrating her life and mourning together.
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School-based counseling and support services across Waterbury’s educational institutions
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A unified plea for calm, unity, and safer environments for all youth .
🙏 Final Reflection
The senseless loss of Carizma Fox has deeply shaken Waterbury. As a beloved daughter, sister, friend, and student, her life—though short—left an enduring imprint. In this painful time, her family’s mantra—seeking answers, demanding justice, and embracing healing—is one the entire community echoes.
May Carizma’s name be a catalyst for change, remembrance, and collective compassion.