Homicide investigation leads to arrest of shooting William Morris

1/4/2022

RawNews1st – Upon approaching the area of Square St and Seymour Ave the officer’s attention was drawn to a light green minivan, as it was the only vehicle on the streets, as well as the fact that it was driving in an erratic fashion.

Immediately after hearing the shots fired on the 1200 block of Seymour Ave, officers with the Patrol Division on an unrelated call began to drive toward the sound of the gunfire in order to investigate.

As the officer drove closer to the vehicle, the operator appeared to begin to turn one way and immediately turned the other without signaling.

Based on the proximity to the shots fired, the driver’s actions, and the NYSV&TL the officer attempted to conduct a vehicle stop.

Upon activating his emergency lights, the van sped away at a very right rate of speed.

The vehicle then failed to comply for several blocks, until it ultimately came to an immediate stop on the 1100 block of Seymour Ave.

At that time three males fled from the vehicle, one fleeing east the other two westbound through driveways and rear yards.

The officer gave chase of the westbound males, and observed one jump over a fence in a rear yard.

The officer immediately ran to the adjacent yard where the male fled into, and was able to take the male in custody without incident.

In searching the area immediately next to the fence, the officers located a loaded 9mm handgun. The weapon was secured, and the male was transported to the Utica Police Department.

During this time the other officers were directed to the two injured parties, and immediate aid was rendered to them.

For now, this male Abdukadir Ali age 19 of Utica was charged with:

Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the second degree
Criminal Possession of a Firearm.

Also included in this release are surveillance photos of the other two males that fled.

If you are able to assist with the information about these males please contact the Major Crimes Unit at (315) 223-3556 or you can submit a 100% anonymous tip online through

More Crimestoppers: https://rawnews1st.net/category/crimestoppers/

The investigation into the tragic death of William Morris is still very active, and investigators have been working around the clock to bring those responsible to justice.

Mohawk Valley Crime Stoppers at www.mohawkvalleycrimestoppers.com, by calling 1-866-730-8477 (TIPS), or by using the P3 Tips mobile app.