Police have arrested a 17-year-old in connection with a shooting that left three people dead in the bustling Times Square area of New York City. The incident occurred in a gun-free zone, specifically at the intersection of 44th and 7th Avenues, around 1:20 am, close to the Hard Rock Café and a Carmine’s Italian restaurant.
The victims include an 18-year-old woman, as well as two men aged 19 and 65, who sustained injuries during the shooting, according to the police. They were transported to Bellevue Hospital and are reportedly in stable condition, with their injuries not considered life-threatening.
Authorities haven’t disclosed what caused the altercation that led to the shooting, although it seems to have stemmed from a dispute between two individuals. While the teenager is in custody, as of Saturday morning, no charges have been formally filed.
Videos shared on social media depict a chaotic scene, with a significant police presence as first responders attended to the victims. At one point, a man was seen lying on the ground near an SUV before being placed on a gurney. A woman, who appeared to be in distress, also exited the same vehicle, though she seemed uninjured. Police were unable to verify if those inside the SUV were among the victims.
Authorities have not provided additional details, and the investigation is ongoing. This isn’t the first incident involving teenagers in Times Square; a 15-year-old was arrested last February after allegedly shooting a tourist and firing at an NYPD officer while escaping the scene. Additionally, in April, a food cart vendor was shot just a few blocks away following a disagreement with a group of young people.
