An 18-year-old man was killed and two other people were wounded after gunfire erupted during an apparent car meetup in the Bronx, prompting an NYPD investigation into a chaotic scene where authorities believe multiple people opened fire.
The shooting happened at approximately 5:40 a.m. Sunday near East 233rd Street and Boston Road in the Baychester area. Police identified the man who died as Werling Mendez, 18, who suffered a gunshot wound to the head. He was transported to BronxCare Health System but later died from his injuries.
A 22-year-old man was shot in the chest, while a 20-year-old woman was shot in the foot. Both were taken to the hospital and were reported to be in stable condition.
Investigators believe more than one shooter may have opened fire, with police estimating that as many as 60 shots were fired during the incident. More than 60 shell casings were reportedly recovered from the scene, highlighting the intensity of the gunfire.
The violence unfolded during what authorities described as an apparent car meetup or street takeover, gatherings that are often promoted through social media and can attract large groups of drivers and spectators. The NYPD has previously carried out operations aimed at disrupting similar unauthorized events across the city.
The chaos reportedly continued after the shooting. Police said two women were robbed at gunpoint, including one who had her phone and chain stolen. Authorities said three suspects involved in the robberies escaped in an Acura.
Police have not yet determined who was specifically targeted in the shooting, and no arrests had been announced in connection with the gunfire as investigators continued working to identify those responsible.
The deadly incident is adding to concerns surrounding illegal car meetups and street takeovers in New York City, particularly when large crowds, reckless driving and firearms converge in residential neighborhoods.
For investigators, the large number of shell casings and indications of multiple shooters make reconstructing the sequence of events a key part of determining what triggered the violence and identifying those responsible.
