AMHERST, N.Y. (1010 WINS) — A 19-year-old student from Nassau County was stabbed to death on the University at Buffalo's North Campus Friday night in what campus police called a "targeted act of violence."
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The victim, identified as Tyler Lewis, who was a student at Buffalo State College, was stabbed in the chest on Moody Terrace roadway near the Ellicott Complex around 7:30 p.m., police said.
Lewis, of Baldwin, New York, was taken to Erie County Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
Investigators said they believe "this was a targeted act of violence, stressing there is no ongoing danger to the university community," with witnesses telling police that the deadly attack stemmed from a fight between several people who most likely knew each other.
"I want to reassure our community that our campuses are extremely safe," said UB Police Chief Chris Bartolomei. "To be clear, this does not appear to be a random act of violence, but rather a targeted incident between known individuals."
University Police have identified a person of interest in the case who was described as a man between 19 and 22 years old, with light brown hair, a medium build and standing around 5’5" to 5’9" tall.
He was last seen with "several cuts on his face, including a large diagonal laceration across his forehead" and wearing "a mustard-colored shirt that was covered in blood." Police said he was nearby when the stabbing occurred but left driving a black 4-door sedan.
Police believe at least four people may have been involved.
"Our officers and investigators are working around the clock with local law enforcement partners to bring the individuals involved to justice," Bartolomei added.
Anyone with information about the incident or the person of interest is asked to call campus police immediately at 716-645-2222.
Lewis' neighbors in Baldwin told News 12 that the teen was liked by everyone and was helpful and kind.
"It's just shocking to know now that he's gone. It’s really tough," Ion Maravilla, who went to high school with Lewis, told the outlet. "I can't imagine the pain the family is going through now."
Buffalo State President Katherine S. Conway-Turner said Lewis was a sophomore majoring in pre-business administration.
"On behalf of the entire Buffalo State community, I express my heartfelt condolences to Tyler's family and beloved friends," Conway-Turner said in a statement. "Our hearts ache for you during this difficult time."
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