A mass shooting in Jamaica, Queens, on New Year’s Day left ten teenagers injured when multiple suspects opened fire outside the Amazura Concert Hall. This incident occurred shortly after 11:15 PM at a private vigil for 16-year-old Taearion Mungo, who was fatally shot the previous October. His mother organized the gathering to commemorate what would have been his birthday.
The shooting took place with approximately 90 people inside the venue and a line of 15 individuals waiting outside. Four men approached the crowd, discharging approximately 30 rounds before fleeing in a light-colored sedan with out-of-state plates. In response, the Amazura Concert Hall expressed their sorrow over the situation and pledged to assist law enforcement in the investigation.
While the concert hall characterized the incident as isolated, police have noted prior calls to the location, and early investigations suggest the possibility of gang-related involvement. The victims, aged between 16 and 19 years old, were swiftly transported to local hospitals, with all expected to survive their injuries.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. emphasized the distress faced by the victims’ families, expressing relief that there were no fatalities. He affirmed the community’s resolve to confront gun violence and ensured that those responsible for the attack would face justice.
As the investigation unfolds, police are actively reaching out to the public for assistance and are hopeful that community tips will aid in apprehending the suspects. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline, emphasizing that all tips remain confidential.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the ongoing issue of gun violence, particularly among young people. Nonetheless, the solidarity shown by the community and law enforcement in the aftermath provides a glimmer of hope for healing and accountability.
Summary: A mass shooting outside Amazura Concert Hall during a vigil injured ten teenagers in Jamaica, Queens. Police are searching for four suspects and community support is crucial in the ongoing investigation as all victims are expected to survive, highlighting resilience amid tragedy.