Seventeen people have been injured in a shooting at a New York City subway station during the morning rush hour. The incident occurred at Brooklyn's 36th Street station at approximately 08:30 local time (12:30 GMT) when an unidentified attacker detonated a smoke bomb and opened fire.
New York City Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell stated that the suspect donned a gas mask before opening fire on the subway and platform. The attacker fled the scene wearing a green construction-type vest and a grey sweatshirt. Police have located a rental van linked to the attack, but the suspect remains at large.
Ten of the injured were shot, while others suffered smoke inhalation or injuries sustained during the ensuing panic. Five individuals are in critical but stable condition, and none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening, according to police. The investigation is ongoing, and officials are appealing for information about the gunman.
Eyewitness Sam Carcamo described the scene as 'smoke and blood and people screaming.' Another witness, Claire, reported seeing the suspect drop a cylinder that sparked, initially mistaking him for a subway worker due to his vest. Initial police investigations were hampered by a malfunction in the station's surveillance camera system, as confirmed by Mayor Eric Adams.
Governor Kathy Hochul condemned the attack, stating, 'This insanity that is seizing our city has to stop.' President Joe Biden expressed gratitude to first responders and civilians who assisted fellow passengers. The attack is not being investigated as an act of terrorism at this time.
