NEW YORK (AP) — In a shocking incident, six people were shot at a Bronx convenience store on Monday evening, including a mother and her 12-year-old daughter, who was used as a human shield during the attack. The assault was described by police as a “brazen and heartless attack” on innocent individuals. Interim Chief of Department John Chell stated that the incident occurred around 5 p.m., amidst numerous calls reporting gunfire.

According to eyewitness accounts, the chaos began when two perpetrators opened fire at a group outside the store, located on White Plains Road. As some of the intended targets rushed inside for safety, one of them seized the mother, spinning her around to shield him from the gunfire, resulting in her being shot in the stomach while her daughter was struck in the leg. Chell emphasized the cowardice of the actions taken by the shooters, “It was a cowardly act to use a mother as a shield” (USA Today).

The other victims include four men aged between 18 and 21, who suffered injuries primarily to their arms and legs. Authorities reported that five of the injured were transported to hospitals, while one made his way independently. As of Tuesday morning, the gunmen remain at large, and police are soliciting information from anyone who might assist in their identification (ABC News). Witnesses described the nerve-wracking atmosphere, with one citing they heard at least ten shots and immediately dropped to the ground.

Despite a reported decrease in shooting incidents in New York City—down nearly 8% in 2024—this tragic event has sparked concerns regarding public safety. City officials, including Mayor Eric Adams, assured the public that the police are committed to capturing all responsible parties and delivering justice, stating that statistics fail to diminish the impact of such a violent act (AP News).

The ongoing investigation continues to probe potential motives behind the attack, while the identities and conditions of the injured parties remain undisclosed.