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Tragic Loss of Nigerian Fashion Designer in Brooklyn Nightclub Shooting
A promising Nigerian fashion designer lost his life after being shot in the head during an altercation at a Brooklyn nightclub. The incident unfolded when the victim confronted a drunken man who had allegedly inappropriately touched his girlfriend.
Details of the Incident at Quilox Restaurant and Lounge
Sheriff Shittu, aged 30, was fatally shot inside Quilox Restaurant and Lounge, located in East Flatbush on Church Avenue near 95th Street. The shooting occurred around 4:25 a.m. on a Saturday, according to local law enforcement sources.
Accompanied by his younger brother, Fawaz Shittu, Sheriff had gone to the club to celebrate a friend’s birthday, just one day before their mother was scheduled to visit from Nigeria.
A Heartbreaking Encounter
Fawaz recounted the harrowing moments following the shooting: “I was calling out his name, desperately trying to wake him.” The tragedy began when Sheriff intervened after a stranger, intoxicated and aggressive, started groping women, including Sheriff’s girlfriend.
The brothers initially left the venue within 45 minutes, disturbed by the commotion. However, they returned shortly after realizing Sheriff had forgotten his phone. Upon their return, the intoxicated man was being escorted out, and the club owner urged them to stay, dismissing the man as “a crazy guy.” Moments later, gunfire erupted.
A bartender immediately attempted CPR on Sheriff, who was lying motionless on the floor, but the gunman fled the scene and remains at large.
Concerns Over Security Measures
Fawaz expressed frustration over the club’s security protocols, stating, “The shooter escaped, and I don’t understand how he brought a gun inside. Security failed to properly check patrons and their belongings.”
Emergency responders transported Sheriff to Brookdale University Hospital, where he was later declared dead. Despite this, his family has kept him on life support, clinging to hope for a miracle.
Family’s Heartfelt Tribute and Ongoing Struggles
Salem Shittu, another brother, described Sheriff as “a kind and outgoing individual who fiercely protected his loved ones.” The shooting occurred just one day before their mother, Foluke Shittu, was due to arrive in Queens for a planned visit. She was informed of the tragedy only after landing.
Foluke shared, “My son was incredibly loving. We spoke just two days before I arrived. The news shattered me.”
Since immigrating to the U.S. in 2018, Sheriff balanced working as a security guard with nurturing his budding fashion brand, Riff Ent. His family is committed to continuing his legacy through the label.
Calls for Justice and Community Impact
As the family mourns, they also demand accountability. Salem emphasized, “We want the perpetrator to face the harshest penalties available, including life imprisonment or the death penalty if applicable.”
This tragic event highlights ongoing concerns about nightclub security and gun violence in New York City. According to recent NYPD data, shootings in Brooklyn nightclubs have seen a slight uptick, prompting calls for stricter enforcement and preventive measures.
The Shittu family’s story is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for safer public spaces.
