New York City experienced a tragic incident during its Pride march on Sunday night, as two teenage girls were shot and six other attendees were affected by bear spray. The violence unfolded near the historic Stonewall Inn in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village, marking a disturbing conclusion to the month-long LGBTQ+ celebrations.
The shooting happened just before 10 PM in Sheridan Square at Likelihood’s back block party, with crowds out celebrating the holiday. According to the NYPD, the victims—a 16-year-old girl and a 17-year-old boy—were taken to Bellevue Hospital. One of the girls, 15-year-old Hania Ali, is still listed in critical condition after suffering a gunshot wound to the head. The police have since announced an investigation into the police shooting.
Earlier in the evening, around 7:50 PM, six individuals were struck with bear spray. According to the New York Fire Department, the injured were treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Lucky for us, the fallout from this debacle was not disastrous. Witnesses reported that the daytime celebrations had been peaceful, joyous, and family friendly. As the sun set, a different tone emerged and many partiers started to get unruly.
On X late Sunday night, New York City’s Mayor Eric Adams stated his sadness in the aftermath of the wreck. He stated, “Saddened to learn about the shooting by the Stonewall Inn tonight as Pride celebrations were winding down.” He emphasized the significance of such celebrations, adding, “During a time when our city should be rejoicing and celebrating members of our diverse LGBTQ+ community, incidents like this are devastating.”
The recent events have overshadowed the dangerous precedent and celebration. It was intended to be a positive, inclusive event showcasing LGBTQ+ pride and pride in LGBTQ+ rights. Community leaders and residents have been calling for better safety protections. They don’t want any more violence at our parades and public gatherings while the criminal investigations play out.