Hykiem Coney

Who was Hykiem Coney?

Hykiem Coney was an anti-gang activist with Help End Violence Now Coalition, located in Nassau County, New York.

Coney was the founder of the "Outlaws", a Hempstead gang affiliated with The Bloods. He was sent to prison for gang-related activity, and upon his release was prepared to avenge the murder of his friend. He found God, however, and renounced the gangster lifestyle.

Coney was shot fatally on October 21, 2006 by Tyrel Cason outside of Image Bar and Lounge, located on Hempstead Turnpike.

Bishop J. Raymond Mackey of the Tabernacle of Joy Church was described by Coney to be a father figure. Coney credited Mackey with turning his life around and helping him get a job with HEVN. Coney had also become a minister-in-training.

Tyrel Cason was convicted of second-degree manslaughter and on weapons charges on March 26, 2007. The jury did not convict Cason of second-degree murder. The defense had claimed that Cason had not aimed at Coney, and had not intended to hit anyone.