Active Shooter Incident Reported in East Village; Police Urge Public to Shelter in Place
EAST VILLAGE, N.Y. — Chaos erupted in Manhattan’s East Village late Sunday evening as police responded to reports of an active shooter in the neighborhood.
Authorities say officers were called shortly after 8 p.m. following multiple 911 calls about gunfire near the intersection of East 9th Street and Avenue B. Witnesses reported hearing a rapid succession of shots, sending people running for cover as nearby restaurants and businesses quickly locked their doors.
When NYPD officers arrived, they immediately began securing the area and searching for the suspect. Police have not yet confirmed whether there are any casualties, but emergency medical teams were seen rushing several people from the scene to nearby hospitals.
Residents were advised through emergency alerts to shelter in place while officers continued to sweep the area. Streets around Tompkins Square Park and surrounding blocks were cordoned off, with dozens of police vehicles, ambulances, and tactical units stationed nearby.
“We heard five or six loud pops and then everyone just started screaming and ducking,” said one East Village resident who was dining outdoors at the time of the shooting. “People ran inside restaurants, and staff told us to stay low until it felt safe to move.”
As of late Sunday night, police had not announced an arrest and had not confirmed whether the gunman was still at large. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding businesses and interviewing witnesses in hopes of identifying the shooter and understanding the motive.
The East Village, a bustling neighborhood known for its nightlife, restaurants, and cultural landmarks, was packed with weekend crowds at the time of the shooting. The incident has left many residents shaken and calling for more safety measures in densely populated areas.
Officials are expected to hold a press conference Monday morning to provide updated information about the investigation, potential victims, and whether the suspect has been apprehended.
The NYPD is urging anyone who may have information or video footage of the shooting to contact investigators at 1-800-577-TIPS.
