New York City’s annual Pride March was marred by violence late Sunday evening when two teenagers were shot just blocks away from the historic Stonewall Inn, according to NYPD officials.
The shooting occurred around 10:30 p.m. on Sunday night at the intersection of Seventh Avenue South and Christopher Street in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village. The location is just steps from the Stonewall Inn, a landmark site of the 1969 uprising that sparked the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.
Police said the two victims, both 19 years old, were walking together near the Pride festivities when an unidentified suspect approached and opened fire. The teens were struck in the leg and shoulder, respectively, and were transported to Bellevue Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Authorities stated that the suspect fled the scene on foot. As of Monday morning, no arrests have been made. Investigators are reviewing nearby surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to determine the motive behind the attack.
“We do not know at this point if the incident was hate-motivated or connected to the Pride celebrations,” said NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Public Information Carlos Nieves. “The investigation is ongoing, and we are asking anyone with information to come forward.”
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with people scrambling for cover after the sound of gunfire disrupted what had been a joyous celebration of LGBTQ+ pride and unity.
Local LGBTQ+ advocacy groups expressed concern over the shooting and called for increased safety measures during large public events. “This incident reminds us of the ongoing threats our community faces, even during moments of celebration,” said a spokesperson from NYC Pride.
Mayor Eric Adams released a brief statement condemning the violence, saying, “We will not tolerate violence in our city—especially not in spaces that represent love, pride, and equality.”
As police continue their search for the suspect, residents and activists have placed candles and signs at the scene to honor the victims and call for peace.
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