Times Square shooting: Panic as gunmen open fire near crowded New York tourist spot
Times Square shooting: A busy afternoon in New York City's Times Square turned chaotic after gunshots rang out near one of the world's most visited tourist destinations, sending visitors and pedestrians scrambling for cover.
According to authorities, at least two persons dressed in dark clothing were seen entering the crowded area and opening fire with a handgun before fleeing the scene. The incident took place just steps away from a parked police vehicle, creating panic among hundreds of people gathered in the area.
????????: Shots fired near 42nd Street and Broadway in Times Square, New York City
According to NYPD reports and eyewitness accounts, gunfire caused panic with crowds scattering. A suspect was quickly arrested, and a firearm was recovered at the scene. No injuries have been confirmed… pic.twitter.com/3Pbgnybtx1
— World In Last 24hr (@world24x7hr) June 18, 2026
Video footage captured from a public webcam showed frightened tourists running in different directions as the suspects escaped through a nearby street. Several police officials who were already patrolling the district immediately chased the suspects. Law enforcement officials later confirmed that one person was quickly taken into custody following the pursuit.
The New York Fire Department said one person was taken to a hospital after the shooting. Officials have not yet released details about the victim's condition or whether others were injured.
The gunfire was reported around 3.40 pm, only hours after a major public celebration in Lower Manhattan. Earlier in the day, thousands of fans had gathered for a championship parade honouring New York's basketball team following its historic title victory. City officials had deployed around 10,000 police officials across key locations to maintain security during the large-scale event.
Times Square attracts millions of visitors each year. Investigators are currently working to determine the motive behind the attack and whether the suspects specifically targeted anyone.
The incident also comes shortly after another shooting in Times Square last week, when a 17-year-old was shot during post-game celebrations. Due to the massive crowd at the scene, police officials reportedly took the injured teenager to a hospital themselves because emergency vehicles were unable to reach the area quickly.
Authorities have increased their presence in and around Times Square as the investigation continues. Further details are expected once detectives complete witness interviews and review surveillance footage from the area.
- With inputs from agencies
