Gunman, 21, arrested in shooting of Times Square food vendor, claims self-defense: cops
An accused gunman, Emanuel Charles, was arrested in connection with a shooting incident that occurred in Times Square. The incident involved a group of individuals, including Charles, who allegedly shot a food vendor following a dispute over a backpack. Charles has been charged with attempted murder, assault in the first degree, assault in the second degree, criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree, criminal trespass in the third degree, and reckless endangerment by the NYPD.
The altercation, captured on shocking video footage, shows Charles and his associates engaging in a struggle with a knife-wielding man, which escalated into gunfire at the intersection of Seventh Avenue and West 47th Street. One of the bullets struck a 29-year-old food vendor in the right arm, causing him to be hospitalized in stable condition at Bellevue Hospital.
It remains unclear whether the food vendor was the individual seen wielding the knife in the video or if he was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire. Four other individuals believed to be involved in the incident are currently in custody and may face charges pending further investigation.
During his arrest, Charles claimed that he acted in self-defense, alleging that the man with the knife had threatened him. Despite his assertion, the suspect has no prior arrest history according to sources.
The NYPD is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting in Times Square. As the case unfolds, more details may emerge regarding the motives and actions of those involved.
