Police hunt masked gunman after NYC subway shooting: Everything we know so far

Several people were shot this morning while in and on the subway at the 36th Street station in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.

The shooting is the latest in a series of violent crimes that have left New Yorkers fearing for their safety when riding the subway.

Back in January, a woman was fatally shoved in front of a moving train, and in February, a man shoved a bag of human feces in a woman's face on a subway platform in the Bronx.

What we know happened

At 8:26 a.m., The FDNY was called to the scene with reports of smoke inside the station where the D, N, and R lines pass through.

Upon arrival, members of the FDNY found at least five people injured via gunshot wounds.

The police were notified and emergency responders arrived to treat a total of 16 victims with injuries ranging from gunshot wounds to smoke inhalation. As of now, 10 people suffered gunshot wounds, five are currently in "critical but stable condition".

According to Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell, the shooting began in a subway car when a person wearing a gas mask opened a canister releasing a smoke bomb, and then began shooting.

FDNY confirmed there were no explosive devices at the scene and the investigation is not being treated an act of terrorism.

What we know about the suspect

Law enforcement officials say they are looking for a 5'5" man with a heavyset built wearing a hooded grey sweatshirt.

At the time of the incident, the man was wearing a gas mask and green construction vest.

As of 12:15 p.m., the gunman is on the loose and considered

"Be very vigilant and alert," Governor Kathy Hochul said during the press conference. Police are asking the public to report any information to crime stoppers.

Where it happened

The 36th Street subway station is in Sunset Park, Brooklyn which is two stops from Manhattan on the D, and N lines.

Sunset Park is located in the southwest region of Brooklyn between Park Slope and Bay Ridge.

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What the response is

Following the investigation, the MTA suspended all B and W service along with parts of D, N, and R service.

Mayor Eric Adams, who tested positive for Covid on Monday, was briefed on the situation and asked all New Yorkers to avoid the area while the investigation is underway.

Additionally, Press Secretary Jen Psaki notified the public that President Joe Biden has been briefed and extended any additional resources to Mayor Adams.

Videos and images from social media depict a horrifying and violent scene at the subway station where the incident occurred.

Further updates are expected to occur this afternoon in another press conference.

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