An FDNY spokesperson told BuzzFeed News they first received a call about smoke in the station and that first responders discovered multiple people shot. “Several undetonated devices at [the] same location,” the spokesperson said, describing the scene as still active.
The NYPD subsequently said on Twitter that there were no active explosive devices at this time.
Graphic photos on social media showed at least three people lying on the floor of the station in a pool of blood.
Schools in the area were put on a “shelter-in” status, an Education Department spokesperson told BuzzFeed News, meaning no one can leave their building.
On Twitter, subway officials said there was a “major disruption” to service.
Police urged the public to avoid the station and to “expect emergency vehicles and delays in the surrounding area.”
Federal officials with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives were also on the scene.
“While we gather more information, we ask New Yorkers to stay away from this area for their safety and so that first responders can help those in need and investigate,” said Fabien Levy, a spokesperson for Mayor Adams.
President Joe Biden was also briefed on the incident, according to White House press secretary Jen Psaki.
“White House senior staff are in touch with Mayor Adams and Police Commissioner Sewell to offer any assistance as needed,” Psaki said.
Located in southwestern Brooklyn, Sunset Park is home to a vast majority of working class and immigrant families, many of whom are Asian and Latino.
The American Public Health Association says gun violence in the US is a public health crisis. It is a leading cause of premature death in the country, responsible for more than 38,000 deaths annually. As of April 12, at least 11,874 people have died from gun violence this year, according to data from the Gun Violence Archive.
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Source: https://www.buzzfeed.com/davidmack/brooklyn-subway-shooting-sunset-park