A man was slashed before shots were fired in Midtown, police said.
NEW YORK — Crowds fled into stores and restaurants Thursday after gunfire followed a large fight in Times Square, where police said a man was slashed and a 17-year-old was taken into custody.
The afternoon violence unfolded in the heart of Midtown, near Broadway, West 44th Street and West 45th Street. Police said the gunfire did not hit anyone, but the sound of shots caused panic in an area filled with tourists, commuters, vendors and workers.
Police said the trouble started with a dispute involving a large group shortly after 3:30 p.m. A 26-year-old man was slashed in the neck and taken to a hospital in stable condition. Moments later, a person opened fire near 44th Street and Broadway. The shooter ran from the scene as officers moved in. A teen was stopped and taken into custody after a chase, police said.
Witnesses described a sudden rush for cover. People ran into shops on Broadway and near West 45th Street and Eighth Avenue. Michael Reid, who was inside a nearby restaurant, said the rush sounded like breaking glass as people pushed inside. Aydan Spencer said children were on the floor as people tried to protect themselves. Another witness said a group hid inside the Hershey store until the danger passed.
Officers quickly closed in on the area and began collecting evidence. Police examined the street and nearby vehicles, including a blue Hyundai that may have been struck during the shooting. A gun was recovered at the scene, police said. Soon after the first arrest, police reported a second shooting near West 45th Street and Eighth Avenue. No injuries were reported in that shooting.
The case remains open. Police have not said what caused the dispute, whether the slashing and shootings were part of the same conflict, or how many people may have fired weapons. Investigators are seeking more people for questioning and reviewing video from cameras in the area.
The incident added to recent tension in Times Square, where large crowds had gathered in recent days during major city celebrations. Police presence was already high in Midtown, but the shooting showed how quickly a crowded public space could turn chaotic. No public briefing had been scheduled as of Friday morning.
The teenager remained in custody Friday while detectives prepared the case for possible charges. Police said the wounded man was expected to survive, and investigators were still working to identify additional suspects.
Author note: Last updated Friday, June 19, 2026.