Man shot dead near Washington Square Park after brawls following Pride march and celebrations

GREENWICH VILLAGE, Manhattan (WABC) — A 20-year-old man is recovering in hospital after being shot near Washington Square Park.

Shots were fired as police evacuated the park when fights broke out after the pride march.

Monday morning, 5th Avenue and East 8th Street were closed. The shooting took place shortly after 2 a.m.

Bullet marks were visible on the ground as investigators tried to determine who fired the shots that left the young man hit in the buttocks and right hand.

Numerous fights broke out near the park on Sunday as a large crowd gathered for Pride celebrations.

It was a tense situation to say the least as police struggled to control the disorderly crowd.

A total of 22 people were arrested during and after Pride. Sixteen people were summoned to court and released, while six remain in custody and charged.

“The first time I was running. I heard two, but I didn't know if it was a gunshot or not, I thought it was fireworks or something because it's Pride, you know,” said one witness.

“It’s really crazy, Pride isn’t supposed to be like this,” said one witness. “We're supposed to go out and have fun and love each other and come together. And we hope that in the future there will be no more violence and madness. »

The victim, who was shot several times, was taken to a local hospital.

Police continue to search for the shooter. Anyone with information is asked to call police.

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