Albert Itzkowitz, 75, was found shot to death near Kissena Lake in Kissena Park, Queens, on Monday, May 18, 2026. He suffered gunshot wounds to the neck and back, and police have launched a homicide investigation. No arrests have been made.
Officers responded to a 911 call just before 5 p.m. and discovered Itzkowitz unconscious along the shoreline of Kissena Lake in East Flushing. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene. Detectives recovered one shell casing near his body but found no weapon. Investigators have not released any suspect description, and the motive remains unknown .
Itzkowitz lived in Kew Gardens Hills, about two miles from the park. Friends described him as a quiet, kind man, deeply devoted to his family and faith. He was a husband and father of five, and had attended his neighborhood temple for nearly 40 years. His rabbi’s wife, Helen Oelbuam, said he was “an amazing person, loved by everyone, and if anyone needed a favor, he was there.” She also revealed that his wife had passed away just three weeks earlier, compounding the grief for his family and community .
The NYPD has added extra patrols in Kissena Park, a 235‑acre public space known for its walking paths, sports fields, and velodrome. While the park is a popular neighborhood destination, it has seen violence before, including gang‑related crimes. Authorities emphasized that the investigation into Itzkowitz’s death is ongoing and urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 1‑800‑577‑TIPS .
Community members expressed shock and sorrow, noting that Itzkowitz was not involved in conflicts and “kept to himself.” His sudden death has left friends and neighbors struggling to understand why such a devoted and respected man was targeted. Vigils are being planned to honor his memory, and his temple community has been gathering to support his children and grandchildren .
Authorities continue to treat the case as an active homicide investigation. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from the area and interviewing witnesses. As of May 20, 2026, no arrests or suspects have been announced. The NYPD has reiterated its call for public assistance, stressing that even small details could help solve the case
