The search continues for a suspect behind a Times Square shooting on Thursday night during an apparent robbery attempt that left a woman injured, police reported.
According to sources familiar with the investigation, three men men shoplifting inside of JD Sporting Goods on 42nd Street and Broadway at around 7 p.m. on Feb. 8 starting filling bags with footwear. As they attempted to flee, a security officer grabbed them and yanked back the bag full of products, which apparently sent one of the suspects into a rage.
Police said that man, wearing a white jacket then produced a firearm and attempted to shoot at the guard but missed — striking a 37-year-old female customer in the left thigh instead.
“They shot the girl in the leg,” one eyewitness who asked not to be identified told amNewYork Metro. “We were just standing there looking around when somebody shot.”
Police sources said the two suspects then headed north as the victim, reported to be a 27-year-old Brazilian tourist, was pulled to the back of the store for medical attention. EMS rushed her to Bellevue Hospital in stable condition with injuries not considered life-threatening.
Sources said cops chased the suspects on foot, with one of them dropping a jacket at the corner of 51st Street and 6th Avenue. Police say the gunman opened fire on the pursuing officers; no one was injured.
“Our officer draws his weapon but he cannot fire, too many people,” Chief of Patrol John Chell said. “We have numerous resources scouring this area looking for that male.”
A slew of shell casings could be seen on the corner of 42nd Street beside a pair of pliers.
One suspect is now in custody, while two others remains at large, police sources said. The NYPD advised the public to stay clear of the area while the investigation continues.
Police described the suspect as a man with a light complexion, standing about 5 feet, 7 inches tall, and wearing a white t-shirt and pants. A $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to his arrest and conviction.
Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts can call Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS (for Spanish, dial 888-57-PISTA). You can also submit tips online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, or on Twitter @NYPDTips. All calls and messages are kept confidential.
