Three People Injured in Times Square Shooting as 17-Year-Old Faces Charges

Three people were injured during a shooting in Times Square early Saturday, according to the New York City Police Department.

Authorities reported that the incident occurred on 44th Street near Seventh Avenue in Manhattan when gunfire erupted, striking two teenagers and a 65-year-old man. Police took a 17-year-old male into custody in connection with the shooting. He faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, assault, criminal possession of a weapon, and reckless endangerment. His name has not been released due to his age.

Witnesses told CBS News New York that the violence began with a fight inside the Raising Cane’s restaurant at the corner of 44th and Seventh Avenue. The altercation, which took place at approximately 1:20 a.m., appeared to involve about 15 teenagers who arrived on Citi Bikes. According to one witness, the group approached her friend asking for $2, but left after being told there was no money available.

As patrons waited for their food, the group exited the restaurant and began fighting outside, witnesses said. Moments later, three gunshots were heard.

“We literally thought it was fake. We thought it was like firecrackers or fireworks. We didn’t believe it,” said witness Agnes Rodriguez.

Nearby officers heard the shots and immediately responded. After a brief chase, the suspect was apprehended one block away at 44th Street and Eighth Avenue.

Police confirmed that a 19-year-old man suffered a gunshot wound to the foot, an 18-year-old woman from Maryland received a graze wound to the neck, and a 65-year-old man from New Jersey was shot in the leg. All three were taken to the hospital in stable condition. Investigators believe the 19-year-old man was the intended target, while the other two victims were bystanders.

Officials stated that the shooting followed an argument between the suspect and the older teen. A firearm was recovered from the scene. It is not yet known if the suspect and victims were acquainted before the incident.

Times Square has been designated a gun-free zone since 2022 under New York State law, which prohibits firearms in sensitive locations. However, street vendors in the area report that shootings still occur.