Violence marred the J’Ouvert celebrations in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, despite the deployment of 1,000 NYPD officers and eight drones, according to police. The incidents included a deadly shooting, a fight that escalated into gunfire and stabbings, and a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Five violent incidents occurred along the parade route, one more than last year, while four violent clashes took place on the surrounding streets, three more than in 2022.
One of the incidents involved the killing of a man who was repeatedly shot on Sterling Place near Schenectady Ave. Another incident occurred when a 19-year-old man was shot in the chest and thumb during an argument between two groups along the parade route. Two other teens suffered slash wounds, and an FDNY fire truck was hit by a stray bullet.
The NYPD’s swift response, including the use of a drone, prevented a potential retaliation shooting on Utica Ave. A total of 30 firearms, including the one used in the Monday afternoon shooting, were recovered within the four precincts where J’Ouvert and the West Indian Day Parade took place. Over 70 weapons were recovered citywide over the weekend.
Despite the violence, Mayor Adams and officials hailed the J’Ouvert celebrations as the “safest in history.” Seven individuals were arrested for firearm possession during the festivities. The NYPD’s special precautions, including the use of drones and increased police presence, aimed to prevent shootings along the crowded parade route.
Author: Ryan Scott
Just a guy