Shots were fired in Times Square, New York City, causing panic in one of the world's busiest areas. A 17-year-old was arrested. No one was injured.
The crowd disperses in a few seconds
The incident occurred in the heart of Times Square, on Broadway, between West 44th and 45th Streets. A dispute involving a large group of people initially broke out in this busy area of Manhattan. In the ensuing chaos, a 26-year-old man was stabbed in the neck. He was taken to the hospital and his condition is not considered life-threatening.
Moments later, a 17-year-old reportedly opened fire on the same group. The shooting immediately triggered panic. Tourists, passersby, and employees of nearby businesses ran for cover, some taking refuge in nearby restaurants and shops.
A suspect arrested, a weapon recovered
The 17-year-old suspect was quickly apprehended by police. At this stage, no charges had yet been formally filed against him. Officers also recovered a weapon at the scene.
Dozens of NYPD officers responded to the area of 44th Street and 7th Avenue. Investigators inspected a blue Hyundai after its owner reported that an object had struck the vehicle during the incident.
No one was injured by gunfire.
No one was injured by the gunfire. The only confirmed casualty in this initial sequence was the 26-year-old man who suffered a slashed neck before the shooting. A second shooting was subsequently reported nearby, at the intersection of West 45th Street and 8th Avenue. Again, no gunshot wounds were reported.
Investigators are still seeking to identify and interview other individuals who may be involved in the violence.
Times Square already tense
The shootings occurred a few hours after the parade held in Manhattan to celebrate the New York Knicks' NBA title. The city had mobilized 10.000 police officers to manage the event, which marked the team's first championship in 53 years.
The previous weekend, a 17-year-old boy had already been shot in Times Square during gatherings of fans celebrating the Knicks' championship victory. The density of the crowd prevented an ambulance from quickly reaching the victim, who was transported to the hospital by police.
