Police Seek ‘Armed and Dangerous' Suspect in Fatal Groton Shooting

A 24-year-old man is dead after a shooting outside Ryan’s Pub in Groton overnight and police have secured an arrest warrant for an "armed and dangerous" suspect in the crime.

Police said they were called to the business at 112 Fort Hill Road around 1:35 a.m. Sunday. When they arrived they found the victim, identified as Joseph Gingerella, of Groton, in the parking lot with multiple gunshot wounds.

Gingerella was taken to L&M Hospital in New London where he was pronounced dead. 

Police have an arrest warrant for a murder charge for Dante Hughes, 30, of Groton, in connection with the case. Hughes is described as 5-foot-11, 150 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He is considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who spots him is advised not to approach and to call 911.

The Groton Town Police Department, the Connecticut State Police Eastern District Major Crime Squad and the New London County State’s Attorney’s Office are investigating this case. Anyone with information on the shooting or Hughes' whereabouts is asked to call Groton police at 860-441-6712.

Gingerella was known in the community for speaking out about his struggle with addiction and his recovery. The family released the following statement:

"A light has left our lives. Joey Gingerella brought a surplus of light and love into the world. His infectious joy would fill whatever room he was in. We will miss him terribly.

Joey was dedicated to helping people. He used his life experiences to aid anyone in the community who needed a helping hand.

We are incredibly moved by the outpouring of support from the community. Thank you all for your kind words about Joey."

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