Residents Worry After Multiple Gunfire Incidents in Burlington's Old North End

A Quiet Neighborhood Shaken by Violence

Nestled in the heart of Burlington's Old North End, St. Louis Street is known for its vibrant community life. During the day, the neighborhood comes alive with the sounds of children playing and neighbors greeting each other during leisurely strolls. For Fahrid Quraishi, who has called this street home for the past four years, the daytime hours have always been a peaceful time.

However, as the sun sets, the atmosphere changes dramatically. Quraishi described how the tranquility of the neighborhood is often disrupted by gunfire. On Sunday evening, he witnessed a harrowing moment when the quiet was shattered by gunshots at the intersection of St. Louis Street and Manhattan Drive.

Neighbors captured the incident on their Ring cameras, providing valuable footage that shows the events unfolding around 9:30 p.m. According to Quraishi, he and his parents were taking a walk when they heard a loud gunshot followed by two more shots near Gene’s house. The sound of a car speeding away soon followed.

This wasn’t the first time Quraishi had experienced such disturbances. Just two days earlier, he woke up to the same alarming sounds around 2:30 a.m. He recalled hearing three loud shots and seeing cars speed away from the scene.

Burlington police are currently investigating both incidents, using shell casings as evidence. They have also increased patrols in the area, which has been a point of reassurance for some residents.

Rising Concerns and Community Response

The recent shootings come amid a growing list of concerns for residents of St. Louis Street. There has been an increase in car break-ins, and encampments along the bike path at the end of the street have become a persistent issue. These problems have left many feeling uneasy about their safety.

Sarah Raubenheimer, who lives across from Quraishi, shared her frustration. “If we don’t lock our cars, they immediately get robbed,” she said. Her experience highlights the broader issue facing the neighborhood.

Gene Bergman, a long-time resident and Burlington Ward 2 City Councilor, has noticed a positive shift in police presence. “The police response has been really great,” he said. “I have noticed an increase in patrols throughout this entire period.”

Despite the improved police presence, Bergman acknowledges the need for more comprehensive solutions. “It is terrible to be violated in any way, so we have to figure out how to deal with the convergence of a lot of issues,” he added.

Calls for More Action

Quraishi expressed his concern that the city focuses most of its resources on targeting crime in the downtown area. He hopes that the recent shootings will prompt the city to take more action in his neighborhood. “We’re invested in our community, but if we are continuously going to be targets of theft and gun violence, then this is not a safe neighborhood for us to stay,” he said.

In a statement, Deputy Chief Brian LaBarge of the Burlington Police Department emphasized that the Detective Services Bureau is actively investigating both incidents. “Along with other investigative measures, Detectives are canvassing the neighborhoods and have spoken with several community members, as well as staff from the Boys and Girls Club. We have also been in touch with our Federal partners associated with Chittenden County Gun Violence Task Force.”

Residents are encouraged to come forward with any information related to the incidents. Those with details can contact the department at 802-540-2282.

As the community grapples with these challenges, the hope remains that continued efforts will lead to a safer and more secure environment for all residents of St. Louis Street.