GUNFIRE erupted in the heart of Times Square as footage captured hundreds of people fleeing in panic.
The shooting occurred at around 4pm on Thursday, hours after millions of diehard Knicks fans took over Lower Manhattan to celebrate the team’s championship victory.
Surveillance footage showed at least two individuals, both wearing dark clothing, appear to open fire.
At least a half-dozen gunshots could be heard as people ran in terror, seeking safety.
The New York City Police Department confirmed to The U.S. Sun that one suspect was taken into custody and a firearm was recovered at the scene.
It’s unclear what sparked the shooting or whether anybody was injured.
Authorities blocked off portions of the area as they investigated the incident.
Despite Times Square being a designated “gun free zone,” the area has seen its episodes of shootings throughout the years.
The most recent occurred on Sunday when a 17-year-old male was shot in the foot after the Knicks’ Game 5 victory against the San Antonio Spurs during the NBA Finals.
Times Square has been a hotspot for World Cup activity as hundreds of tourists are in the city for the global event.
Soccer fans have packed the Big Red Steps area in recent days to cheer their nations before they take the pitch at MetLife Stadium.
The violent incident disrupted the celebratory atmosphere that engulfed New York City recently.
Lower Manhattan was a roaring sea of orange and blue Thursday morning as millions of Knicks fans celebrated the basketball team’s first NBA championship in 53 years.
Parade-goers lined up before sunrise to secure their spot along the historic Canyon of Heroes from the Battery Park area to City Hall.
Source : https://www.the-sun.com/news/16535949/gunfire-erupts-times-square-after-knicks-parade/
