A night meant to honor the memory of a murder victim turned violent when a mass shooting erupted outside the Amazura concert hall in Queens late Wednesday.
The incident left ten young people, aged 16 to 20, wounded in what police described as a senseless act of violence.
At least three gunmen opened fire around 11:15 p.m. at a crowd of about 15 people waiting to enter the nightclub on 144th Pl. near Archer Ave., according to the NYPD. The shooters unleashed a barrage of over 30 bullets before fleeing west on 91st St. in a light-colored sedan with out-of-state plates. The suspects remain at large.
The victims, six females and four males, were rushed to nearby hospitals with injuries not considered life-threatening.
“This is not a terrorist attack,” NYPD Chief of Patrol Philip Rivera said during a press conference at the scene. “There’s zero tolerance for these senseless shootings, these horrible acts of violence on our streets. Those responsible for this crime will be apprehended and brought to justice.”
The gathering was a “celebration of life” for a man murdered in October, held to commemorate his New Year’s Day birthday, a police source revealed. Authorities are investigating whether the shooting was linked to tensions between rival gangs. “That’s one of the avenues we’re pursuing, but it’s too early to determine right now,” Rivera added.
The Amazura nightclub, known for hosting DJ dance parties and raves, can hold up to 4,000 people. Past performers include Felix Bizarre, Black Daddy, and DJ X-Dream.
In response to the incident, Amazura management issued a statement on Instagram expressing sorrow and a commitment to assisting authorities. “We are deeply saddened by the recent and unfortunate isolated incident that occurred. Our hearts go out to all those affected by this senseless act. We are working closely with law enforcement to ensure a thorough investigation and to help bring those responsible to justice.”
The NYPD is continuing its investigation as the Queens community grapples with the aftermath of yet another shooting on city streets.