By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Brooklyn, NY – Nigerian aspiring fashion designer Sheriff Shittu, 29, was fatally shot at Quilox Restaurant and Lounge in East Flatbush, Brooklyn, early Saturday morning. The deadly incident occurred around 4:25 a.m., following a dispute with a drunken patron who allegedly groped Shittu’s girlfriend. Sheriff had gone to the club to celebrate a friend’s birthday, accompanied by his younger brother, Fawaz Shittu.
What Happened Inside the Club
According to police, the confrontation began when a drunken stranger started touching women inappropriately, including Sheriff’s girlfriend. Sheriff intervened, which led to a physical struggle.
The brothers left the club about 45 minutes later, upset by the incident. They returned shortly after realizing Sheriff had left his cellphone behind. Upon re-entry, the intoxicated man was being escorted out, and the club owner reassured them.
“A few seconds later, I heard ‘pow,’ and I looked down and saw my brother,” Fawaz said.
Immediate Response and Medical Care
A bartender immediately performed CPR on Sheriff while he lay motionless. Emergency medical workers rushed him to Brookdale University Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Salem Shittu, 24, another brother, said the family initially kept Sheriff on life support, hoping for a miracle.
Family Reaction and Tragic Timing
Sheriff’s death occurred just a day before their mother, Foluke Shittu, 60, arrived from Nigeria for a planned visit. She learned of the tragedy upon landing.
“My son was a very kind person. We spoke on Friday, and I arrived on Sunday. That’s when they told me,” Foluke said.
Sheriff Shittu’s Life and Legacy
Sheriff moved to the U.S. from Nigeria in 2018. He worked as a security guard while building his fashion brand, Riff Ent, aiming to grow it into a full-scale label.
“He was a very sweet person, outgoing, and protective of his family and loved ones,” Salem said.
The family pledged to continue promoting Sheriff’s brand while seeking justice for his untimely death.
Ongoing Investigation
Police confirmed the gunman fled the scene and remains at large. The family criticized the nightclub’s security, claiming proper checks could have prevented the tragedy.
“We’re praying both for justice and closure,” Salem said.
