Utica police arrest suspect in shooting at Purple Haze Smoke Shop

UTICA, NY — A 41-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with a shooting earlier this month at the Purple Haze Smoke Shop on South Street, the Utica Police Department announced Wednesday.

Pablo Goico, of Utica, was arrested Nov. 20 by members of the NY/NJ US Marshals Fugitive Task Force and Utica Police patrol units during a vehicle stop. He was charged with attempted second-degree murder and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

The shooting, which happened Nov. 8, prompted an extensive investigation by the department’s Major Crimes Unit. Authorities previously released a photo of the suspect dressed in a black suit and asked for the public’s assistance in identifying him.

Goico was transported to the Utica Police Department following his arrest, where he was formally charged. Authorities have not released further details about the incident or the motive behind the shooting.

The investigation remains active as police continue to build their case against the suspect.

Authorities are crediting investigative efforts for the arrest in the South Street shooting.