Roy Wilkins Park Shooting: A 15-year-old boy has died after being shot in the chest Thursday evening in the St. Albans neighborhood of Queens, according to police, in a tragic incident that has left the local community shaken.
Officers responded to a report of gunfire around 6:15 p.m. near the intersection of Baisley and Merrick Boulevards, an area that includes Roy Wilkins Park. Upon arrival, police discovered the teenage victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. Emergency responders transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Authorities secured the area, establishing a crime scene within the park as investigators began gathering evidence. As of now, no arrests have been made, and officials say the circumstances leading up to the shooting remain unclear. It is also not immediately known whether any other individuals were injured.
Witnesses described moments of confusion and distress following the gunfire. One individual at the scene said he heard a single shot and rushed over, only to find the teen lying on the ground. He described the victim as someone he had seen before at the park, recalling him as a talented basketball player and a “cool kid.”
Another witness initially believed the police response was part of a training exercise, noting that drills sometimes take place in the area. “Children should be able to come to the playground and play,” the witness said, expressing concern over safety in community spaces.
Police are continuing to investigate and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
This remains a developing story.