Gunfire broke out in New York City’s Times Square on Thursday afternoon, triggering alarm among visitors and locals, though authorities reported no injuries and made no immediate arrests.
The incident unfolded only a short distance from a parked police vehicle. The shooting occurred at approximately 3:40 pm, shortly after a parade celebrating the NBA champion Knicks had drawn large crowds to the streets of Lower Manhattan, according to PTI.
Authorities said around 10,000 police officers were deployed to provide security for the event, which honored the Knicks’ first championship victory in 53 years.
The Department confirmed the incident to AFP, noting that it occurred in the bustling entertainment district, which has welcomed an influx ofsupporters since the tournament kicked off last week.
Times Square shooting: Videos show panic among people
Videos shared online captured scenes of chaos as people rushed to leave the area after the sound of multiple shots echoed through the square.
Footage from a webcam appeared to show at least two individuals dressed in black entering the busy intersection on Thursday and firing what looked like handguns into the area.
The sound of the gunfire sparked panic among bystanders, with people seen running for safety or taking cover. The suspects then fled down the street while being chased by several police officers who were patrolling the popular tourist destination.
Police said officers swiftly pursued a suspect following the shooting. The Fire Department confirmed that one person was transported to a hospital, though no further information about the individual’s condition was immediately available.
The incident came less than a week after a 17-year-old was shot in Times Square while fans were celebrating the Knicks’ championship-clinching win over San Antonio, according to police. In that case, officers transported the victim to a hospital themselves because heavy crowds prevented an ambulance from reaching the scene.
(This is a developing story. More to come)
