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9-Year-Old Boy Injured in Suspected Gang-Related Shooting in Brooklyn

3/27/2026, 8:11:19 AM

Incident Overview

On Thursday evening, a 9-year-old boy was injured by a stray bullet in a suspected gang-related shooting in Brownsville, Brooklyn. The incident occurred near 391 Bristol Street shortly before 6 p.m. as the child was reportedly going outside to play with his cousin. He was struck in the back of the leg and was not the intended target of the gunfire. Emergency responders transported the boy to Brookdale Hospital Medical Center, where he is currently in stable condition.

Eyewitness Accounts

Witnesses at the scene expressed shock at the incident. One bystander captured on video exclaimed, “A baby, a baby got shot, a baby got shot,” highlighting the gravity of the situation. The victim's aunt, identified as Kim, expressed her distress, stating, “They shot my nephew. My baby was just trying to go play outside with my son.” She emphasized the dangers present in the neighborhood, noting, “It’s not safe. They’ve got big beefs around here.”

Law Enforcement Response

The New York Police Department (NYPD) is investigating the shooting as a possible gang-related incident. At least three suspects were seen fleeing the scene on foot, but no arrests have been made as of yet. The NYPD has not provided a description of the suspects involved. This incident occurred just hours after NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced the seizure of 1,000 firearms since the beginning of the year, underscoring ongoing concerns about gun violence in the city.

Community Impact

The shooting has raised alarms within the local community regarding safety, particularly for children. The victim's aunt's comments reflect a broader concern among residents about the prevalence of gang violence and its impact on innocent bystanders. The incident has prompted discussions about the need for increased safety measures and community support to address the underlying issues contributing to such violence.

Official Statements

In response to the shooting, the NYPD has reiterated its commitment to addressing gun violence and gang activity in the city. However, specific strategies or plans to enhance safety in the Brownsville area have not been detailed.

Conflicting Reports & Gaps

While multiple sources confirm the boy was shot in the leg, there is some discrepancy regarding the exact location of the incident, with one source stating it occurred near Livonia Avenue. Additionally, the number of suspects reported fleeing the scene varies, with some sources mentioning three individuals while others do not specify a number.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “They shot my nephew,” — Kim, Victim’s Aunt
  • “A baby, a baby got shot, a baby got shot in the leg,” — Eyewitness
  • “He’s just a regular little boy trying to come outside.” — Kim, Victim’s Aunt

The incident highlights ongoing challenges related to gun violence and community safety in urban areas, particularly in neighborhoods affected by gang activity.