9-Year-Old Child Shot by Stray Bullet in Suspected NYC Gang Shooting

The boy was struck in the leg and is in stable condition, as police search for the suspects who fled the scene.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 12:42am

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An innocent 9-year-old boy was shot and wounded in the crossfire of a suspected gang-related shooting in Brooklyn on Thursday evening. The child was not the intended target and was hit by a stray bullet. He was rushed to the hospital in stable condition, as police continue to search for the suspects who fled the scene.

Why it matters

Gun violence and stray bullets striking innocent bystanders, especially children, is an ongoing concern in many urban communities. This incident highlights the need for stronger anti-gun violence initiatives and community-based solutions to address the root causes of gang activity in neighborhoods like Brownsville.

The details

The 9-year-old boy was shot in the back of the leg near 391 Bristol St. in Brownsville just before 6 p.m. on Thursday. At least three suspects fled the scene after the shooting. The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made so far.

  • The shooting occurred just before 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 26, 2026.
  • Hours earlier, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch had held a press conference at the nearby 73rd Precinct, announcing the seizure of 1,000 firearms since the start of 2026.

The players

Jessica Tisch

NYPD Commissioner who held a press conference earlier that day announcing the seizure of 1,000 firearms since the start of 2026.

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What they’re saying

“A baby, a baby got shot, a baby got shot in the leg.”

— Witness

“Oh, someone got shot?”

— Stunned man

“Such a shame.”

— Witness

What’s next

The investigation is ongoing, and police are still searching for the suspects who fled the scene. The judge will decide on whether to grant bail for any suspects arrested in connection with the shooting.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address gun violence and protect innocent lives in urban communities. Policymakers, law enforcement, and community leaders must work together to implement evidence-based solutions that address the root causes of gang activity and prevent such senseless acts of violence.