New York City

Gunfire Scare Shuts Down Part of Times Square Plaza

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Published on June 19, 2026
Gunfire Scare Shuts Down Part of Times Square PlazaSource: Wikipedia/Franz Golhen, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Gunfire reports in Times Square on Thursday afternoon brought a swift police response, with officers closing off parts of the plaza as detectives began piecing together what happened. Details were scarce, and city officials had yet to confirm whether anyone was hurt or taken into custody.

Police investigating

The NYPD said shots were reported in Times Square at around 4 p.m. Video from the scene shows sections of the roadway sealed off behind police tape and barricades, according to FOX 5 New York. As of Thursday afternoon, there was still no word on possible injuries or arrests.

Context: after large celebrations

The incident follows a run of high-profile celebrations in the area, including the city's Knicks parade and related gatherings that turned chaotic earlier in the week. During those festivities, a 17-year-old was wounded and a school bus was set on fire, as documented by CBS News. For a street-level look at that earlier turmoil, see Hoodline's coverage of the teen shot amid mayhem.

What to watch for

The NYPD says the case remains under active investigation and has not released additional information, per FOX 5 New York. This story will be updated as authorities share more details.