Chaos erupted near a busy Queens intersection when a 16-year-old boy was shot in the chest during what authorities are describing as a clash among teenagers. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon around 2:45 p.m. at Springfield Boulevard and Union Turnpike just as students were being released from school, according to FOX 5 NY.
The violence was confirmed by surveillance footage showing a group of youths fighting before the sound of a gunshot shattered the routine hustle of the neighborhood. According to ABC7NY, the teenager victim managed to run across the street towards a gas station after being shot, before doubling back to the intersection where others came to his aid. Local business owners reported hearing the shot and observed the ensuing pandemonium as students scattered in every direction.
No arrests have been made in connection with the shooting, however, police believe the suspect was part of the group of teenagers captured on video. The injured teen was taken to the hospital and is now listed in stable condition, investigators are continuing to review the situation to understand the motive behind the altercation.
"The kids are coming here every day, so it's going to be chaos every day, like usually some days," deli worker Anant Patel told ABC7NY, indicating a pattern of violence in the area. Evidence and witness statements are currently being gathered by NYPD officers who cordoned off the vicinity outside a local eatery and the BP gas station. Local residents expressed their dismay at the violent incident, underscoring the contrast with their perception of the typically "great neighborhood."
Authorities are urging those with information about the case to come forward and contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.
