A night that began as a celebration ended in unimaginable tragedy for a Brooklyn family. Sheriff Shittu, a 30-year-old Nigerian immigrant and aspiring fashion designer, was shot in the head inside Quilox Restaurant and Lounge in East Flatbush in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Sheriff had gone out with his younger brother, Fawaz Shittu, to celebrate a friend’s birthday, unaware that the night would end in violence just a day before their mother was set to arrive from Nigeria. The incident reportedly began when a drunk patron allegedly groped women at the club, including Sheriff’s girlfriend, sparking a brief confrontation. Though Sheriff and his brother initially left the club, they returned minutes later after realizing Sheriff had forgotten his phone.
Tragically, while the situation seemed under control and security intervened, a gunman opened fire. Fawaz described the horrifying moment:
Despite immediate attempts at CPR by staff and rapid response by emergency medical teams, Sheriff was pronounced dead at the hospital. The shooter remains at large.
Sheriff, who moved to the U.S. in 2018, had been working as a security guard while building his fashion brand, Riff Ent. His family remembers him as kind, protective, and deeply devoted to his loved ones. Their grief was compounded by the fact that their mother, Foluke Shittu, learned of her son’s death only after arriving in New York for her visit.
The Shittu family has raised serious concerns about the security measures at Quilox, questioning how the gunman gained access to the club with a weapon. They are now demanding justice and hope authorities can swiftly apprehend the suspect.
Despite the overwhelming grief, Sheriff’s family is determined to continue his vision in fashion. They have pledged to keep pushing the creative dream he nurtured while advocating for stronger safety in nightlife venues.
This tragic incident highlights the dangers that can lurk even in places meant for enjoyment, and the devastating ripple effects violence has on families and communities. It’s a stark reminder of the importance of security, accountability, and support for victims’ families in the aftermath of such senseless acts.
