A Fourth of July celebration turned into a nightmare after eight people, including four children, were injured in a mass shooting while watching a fireworks display in Brooklyn, New York, on Saturday night, according to the New York Post.
Police said the shooting occurred at around 10.35pm local time outside the Seapark Apartments in Coney Island, a popular area where large crowds had gathered to watch the Independence Day fireworks.
The sound of gunfire triggered panic as people fled the scene, while police officers and emergency responders rushed in to assist the victims.
Videos circulating online captured the chaotic aftermath, showing officers carrying injured children to safety before they were taken away by ambulances for medical treatment.
A nearby convenience store worker said he witnessed the dramatic rescue through the shop’s security cameras.
“When I looked at the security cameras, I saw police officers running while carrying children. When I went outside, I saw a child being placed into an ambulance and was told there were four other victims inside,” he said.
Authorities have not disclosed the number of suspects involved or the motive behind the shooting. Investigations are ongoing.
Local residents claimed the housing complex where the incident occurred has long been associated with violent crime, although police have yet to confirm whether the shooting was linked to previous criminal activity.
The conditions of the victims have not yet been officially released.
