Omaha, NE – The Omaha Police Department (OPD) has apprehended two young men, 18-year-olds Rayquan Bass and Yourhansay Gonzales-Washington, in connection with the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Sevyn Bellar-White, a senior at Millard North High School. The shooting occurred late on Halloween night, October 31, 2025, and resulted in Bellar-White’s tragic death.
What Happened
Around 11:55 p.m. on Halloween, officers from the Omaha Police Department responded to a report of an injured individual at the intersection of 36th and Polk Streets in South Omaha. Upon arrival, they found Bellar-White in critical condition. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, the young man tragically passed away from his injuries.
The shooting unfolded during a Halloween event, and while details about the specific cause of the altercation remain under investigation, it has since been revealed that Bass and Gonzales-Washington were both involved. Bass, the primary suspect, was charged with second-degree murder, possession of an altered firearm, and using a firearm during the commission of a felony. Gonzales-Washington faces charges of tampering with evidence and being an accessory to a felony. Both suspects were arrested in Council Bluffs, Iowa, after an extensive investigation that spanned multiple days.
Who Was Sevyn Bellar-White
Sevyn Bellar-White was a beloved senior at Millard North High School, remembered by his peers, family, and community for his thoughtfulness and promising future. Those who knew Sevyn described him as a bright young man with an engaging personality and a positive influence on everyone around him. His tragic passing has left the community reeling, as he was just starting to make his mark on the world.
Friends and classmates recall Sevyn’s infectious smile, his dedication to his studies, and his caring attitude toward those around him. His death has touched many, including his teachers and classmates, who fondly remember him as someone who always made others feel supported and valued. Sevyn’s family, devastated by the loss, is left to mourn the death of a child whose future was filled with promise.
Career, Legacy, or Case Details
Sevyn Bellar-White’s legacy will live on through the memories shared by those who knew him. Although he was only 17, Sevyn had already shown immense potential, not only as a student but as a role model to his peers. Millard North High School staff and students are remembering Sevyn as someone who made a difference in their lives. He was respected for his integrity, kindness, and the positive energy he brought to every interaction.
The ongoing investigation into his death aims to provide closure to his family and hold those responsible accountable. As of now, authorities are still working on uncovering the full details of what led to the shooting and the motivations behind it.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The community has been flooded with tributes to Sevyn, both on social media and at Millard North High School. Classmates, friends, and faculty members have expressed their shock and sorrow over his untimely death. Social media platforms have been filled with heartfelt messages, memories, and tributes, many highlighting the kind-hearted nature of Sevyn. One classmate shared, “Sevyn was always there when you needed a friend. He had the kind of heart that made everyone around him feel important.”
A vigil for Sevyn is being planned by the high school community, and various memorial activities are underway to honor his life. Many have expressed their disbelief, with some mentioning that it is hard to fathom how such a tragic event could take away such a bright young man.
Official Statements or What Happens Next
In response to the tragedy, Omaha Police spokesperson Reese Harper expressed the department’s sorrow: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Sevyn Bellar-White. Our department is dedicated to bringing those responsible to justice, and we are committed to providing any support necessary for the family during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Millard North High School community is offering grief counseling services to students and staff affected by the tragedy. Principal David L. Carlson issued a statement, saying, “We mourn the loss of one of our own, and our hearts go out to Sevyn’s family. He was a student who brought light to our school, and we will remember him for the joy and kindness he shared with others.”
Authorities have urged anyone with information about the shooting or the suspects involved to contact the Omaha Police Homicide Unit at (402) 444-5657 or provide anonymous tips through Omaha Crime Stoppers at (402) 444-STOP.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
