BROOKLYN, N.Y. — What began as a Fourth of July celebration near Brooklyn’s iconic Coney Island boardwalk ended in chaos Saturday night after a masked gunman opened fire on a family barbecue, injuring eight people — including four children — in one of New York City’s most shocking acts of violence during the Independence Day holiday.
According to the New York Police Department, the shooting occurred at approximately 10:35 p.m. in the courtyard of an apartment complex near West 30th Street and Surf Avenue, just a short distance from the beach and boardwalk where thousands had gathered throughout the day to celebrate the holiday.
Police say a man dressed entirely in black and wearing a black ski mask approached the courtyard fence and suddenly fired multiple rounds into the gathering before fleeing the scene on foot. Investigators said there were no reports of an argument or confrontation immediately before the gunfire erupted.
Children Among the Victims
Authorities confirmed that four adults and four children were struck by gunfire. The children range in age from 6 to 14 years old, highlighting the devastating impact of the attack on families celebrating the holiday.
Officials said the victims include:
A 21-year-old woman, who remains in critical condition after being shot in the chest.
A 33-year-old man.
A 37-year-old man.
A 25-year-old woman.
Four boys, ages 6, 7, 12, and 14.
The remaining seven victims are expected to survive after being transported to area hospitals for treatment.
Panic as Families Fled
Witnesses described a terrifying scene as gunfire rang out during the holiday festivities. Many initially mistook the shots for fireworks before realizing people around them had been hit.
Emergency responders rushed to the area, with officers seen carrying injured children to waiting ambulances while first responders worked to secure the scene and treat victims.
Investigation Underway
Police recovered a firearm believed to be connected to the shooting, but as of Sunday evening no arrests had been announced. Detectives continue searching for the masked suspect and are reviewing surveillance footage while interviewing witnesses.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said investigators are also examining whether the shooting could be connected to a gang-related homicide that occurred on the same block earlier in the week, though officials have not confirmed a motive.
Holiday Marred by Violence
The shooting occurred just blocks from the famed Coney Island boardwalk, where thousands had gathered earlier in the day to celebrate Independence Day. The incident transformed what should have been a festive evening into a massive crime scene as police cordoned off the neighborhood and investigators began collecting evidence.
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the shooting or has cellphone video or surveillance footage from the area around West 30th Street and Surf Avenue to contact the NYPD as the investigation continues.
The case remains active, and additional information is expected to be released as detectives work to identify and locate the gunman.
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