In a concerning incident on Monday afternoon, six individuals were shot at a convenience store in New York City, including a 12-year-old girl and her mother. According to police, the shooting unfolded when one of the intended targets used the woman as a protective barrier against the gunfire. The mother sustained a gunshot wound to her stomach, while the individual who utilized her as a shield remained unharmed, as reported by police interim Chief of Department John Chell. Authorities have yet to provide updates on the conditions of the victims, labeling the event as “a brazen and heartless attack on innocent New Yorkers and cowardly intended victims.”

Witnesses indicate that the shooters were targeting a group of individuals who were gathered outside the store located on White Plains Road in the Bronx, known for its commercial activity. According to Chief Chell, police have obtained surveillance footage that shows the suspects opening fire around 5 p.m. as they dashed across the street toward the convenience store, continuing their assault as their targets sought refuge inside.

As the chaos unfolded, one of the individuals rushing into the store reportedly collided with the mother and her daughter at the checkout counter. In a frantic move, this person grabbed the woman and thrust her into the path of the gunfire, further endangering both her and the child, according to Chell. The remaining victims included four young men, aged between 18 and 21, all of whom were primarily injured in the arms and legs, while the mother bore the more severe stomach injury. The Fire Department reported that five of the wounded were transported to various hospitals, while the sixth was taken to a medical facility by another party.

Despite the unfolding investigation, no arrests have been made yet, and authorities have not determined the motive behind this alarming incident. The community remains on edge as they await further details about those involved in this violent episode.