A 5-year-old girl was grazed by a stray bullet Wednesday evening in the Longwood section of the Bronx, turning an otherwise routine early evening into a crime scene. The single shot rang out near 1007 Southern Boulevard, steps from local businesses, and the child was taken to NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem with a graze wound to her ear. Hospital staff said the girl is expected to recover.
Police sources told News 12 Bronx that the gunfire erupted at about 5:40 p.m. near 1007 Southern Blvd. EMS rushed the girl to Harlem Hospital, and investigators said she was not the intended target. Detectives were canvassing the area for witnesses and surveillance video, according to the outlet.
Officials confirm child stable; detectives seek witnesses
WABC Eyewitness News also reported the shooting and said the 5-year-old was treated at Harlem Hospital in stable condition. The station noted that no arrests had been announced as officers continued to work the scene. Authorities have not released additional details about any possible suspects or a motive.
Longwood has seen recent gun incidents
The shooting adds to a string of gun violence in Longwood this spring, including a May 8 incident that left a 15-year-old wounded, according to News 12 Bronx. Earlier this year, a February burst of late-night gunfire that wounded two men near 1061 Home Street highlighted recurring safety concerns in the neighborhood. Local residents have urged anyone with footage or information to share it with investigators.
How to report tips
Police asked people with video or information to contact NYPD Crime Stoppers. Tips can be submitted by calling 1-800-577-TIPS, by texting CRIMES (274637) and entering TIP577, or via the department’s online tip portal, according to the NYPD. The city’s Crime Stoppers program offers rewards for anonymous tips that lead to arrests. Detectives say the investigation is ongoing and are following up on leads.
