At least three people have been killed and eight others wounded in a mass shooting inside a Brooklyn restaurant in the early hours of Sunday morning, police confirmed.
The incident took place at the Taste of the City Lounge, located at 903 Franklin Avenue in Crown Heights. According to New York Police Department (NYPD) officials, multiple gunmen entered the venue shortly before closing time and opened fire, causing chaos among late-night patrons.
Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the first emergency calls came in at around 3:30 a.m. local time, with police units and ambulances dispatched to the scene within minutes. “This was a brazen and violent attack that took innocent lives,” she said.
Victims rushed to hospital
Authorities reported that eight people were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment of gunshot wounds. Their conditions have not been officially released, though some are believed to be in serious condition.
One witness, who asked not to be named, told local media that the restaurant was crowded when the gunfire erupted. “Everyone just dropped to the floor. People were screaming and running out through the back door,” he said.
Police have not yet identified the victims, but family members were seen gathering outside the restaurant and local hospitals.
Suspects still at large
As of Sunday morning, no arrests had been made. The NYPD confirmed that the suspects fled the scene and remain at large. Their identities and motive are still unknown.
Detectives are reviewing CCTV footage from inside and outside the restaurant as part of the investigation. Additional patrols have also been deployed in the Crown Heights area to reassure residents.
“This neighbourhood has seen violence before, but this level of carnage is deeply disturbing,” said a local community leader.
Wider concerns
The shooting has once again raised concerns over gun violence in New York City. Despite a drop in overall crime rates in recent years, incidents of mass shootings have continued to spark alarm.
Mayor Eric Adams is expected to address the public later on Sunday, with calls likely to intensify for tougher gun control measures and improved policing strategies.
Police have urged anyone with information about the suspects to come forward.
“This community deserves answers, and we are committed to bringing those responsible to justice,” Commissioner Tisch said.
