NEW YORK, NY – Two police officers in Queens were shot overnight during a chaotic incident that left a suspect injured as well, according to authorities.
The officers were investigating a series of robberies involving mopeds and scooters in East Elmhurst when they attempted to stop an individual riding a moped the wrong way near 23rd Avenue and 82nd Street. The suspect fled on foot, prompting a chase by the two officers.
During the pursuit, the suspect reportedly fired at the officers, striking one in the bulletproof vest and the other in the leg. Both officers were taken to Elmhurst Hospital for treatment and later released.
The 19-year-old suspect, who was staying at a migrant shelter in the area, was shot in the right ankle. He was taken into custody and transported to a hospital in stable condition. A firearm was recovered at the scene.
Investigators revealed that the suspect had no prior arrests in New York City but was considered a suspect in two violent robberies in Queens on May 21. In both incidents, assailants on mopeds used force to steal items from victims, including purses, phones, and debit cards.
Mayor Eric Adams visited the injured officers in the hospital and condemned the shooting as “senseless.” NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban stated that the officers were in good spirits and that the department was prepared to assist in any way necessary.
The incident comes amidst a significant increase in robbery patterns involving scooters and mopeds citywide, with the number of cases more than quadrupling compared to the previous year. City officials are continuing to investigate the rise in these crimes.
The ongoing investigation aims to gather more information about the suspect and determine any potential connections to other criminal activities in the area. The NYPD is working diligently to ensure the safety of both officers and residents in Queens.
As the community processes the aftermath of the shooting, residents and officials are coming together to support the injured officers and express their gratitude for the brave work carried out by law enforcement in Queens.