NYPD Hunts Gunman After Queens Basketball Court Killing Of 15-Year-Old
NYPD is searching for a gunman after a 15-year-old was fatally shot at a Queens basketball court on Sunday. Bystanders filmed the shooting, and video of the incident circulated online, according to reports. The circumstances that led to the shooting and a motive remained unclear as investigators worked the scene. Police said they were searching for the shooter and asked witnesses to come forward.
The footage prompted shock online and renewed calls for greater safety at city parks and courts. Authorities urged anyone with information to contact the NYPD tip line while they review video and interview bystanders.
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đ Key Facts
- Victim identified as 15-year-old Jaden Pierre, shot in the chest at Roy Wilkins Park in Queens around 6:15 p.m. Thursday
- Video on social media shows Pierre being punched by another person as a crowd films moments before the shooting
- NYPD has released photos of a person wanted in connection with the killing but has made no arrests yet
- New York Attorney General Letitia James and Pastor Cory Brooks issued public statements condemning the killing and bystander behavior
- Police are seeking tips through the NYPD Crime Stoppers hotline and online channels
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April 18, 2026