Heartbreaking: 7-Year-Old Girl Hit by Stray Bullet in NYC’s Harlem Neighborhood!
In a heartbreaking incident in New York City’s Harlem neighbourhood, a 7-year-old girl became an unintended victim of a stray bullet shooting on Monday afternoon. Police reported that the incident occurred shortly before 3 p.m. outside 301 W. 145th St., near Bradhurst Avenue.
Two men reportedly opened fire, shooting at least nine rounds. Tragically, the young girl, an innocent bystander, was struck in the abdomen while she was walking along the sidewalk in front of a Starbucks. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported in the incident.
Eyewitnesses described the distressing scene that followed. According to the source, Lori Bordonaro, a relative of the girl was visibly upset, expressing a heartbreaking wish that he could have taken her place. “He was just saying he wished it was him, that he was shot. ‘I wish they could have killed me,'” said Angel Casanova, one of the witnesses present.
Following the shooting, police officers quickly rushed the injured child to Harlem Hospital, where she underwent surgery. Medical staff have stated that she is expected to recover from her injuries. Casanova recounted the young girl’s reaction, mentioning that she appeared to be in shock, staring down at her wound with a look of disbelief.
Authorities have taken two suspects, aged 17 and 19, into custody for questioning. Police said one of the individuals was carrying a firearm. Investigators suspect that the shooting was gang-related, as they believe two groups were exchanging gunfire. At this time, no formal charges have been filed.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams spoke out about the incident, highlighting the tragic nature of any shooting that involves innocent bystanders, especially children.
“It is never a good thing when a child is a victim of a shooting,” said Mayor Adams. “It’s never a good thing when any innocent bystander is a victim. But, again, I really want to commend the quick response from the 30th and 32nd precincts.”
Despite the incident, the 32nd Precinct, which covers the area of Harlem where the shooting occurred, has reported a 27% decrease in shootings compared to the same time last year. However, this improvement in statistics was of little comfort to the community members affected by Monday’s event.
A video captured by a mother and her 6-year-old daughter inside the Starbucks provided a chilling glimpse of the scene as the shooting unfolded. In the video, customers can be seen ducking for cover as the gunfire erupted. Naja Walker, a witness, described the terrifying experience.
“Immediately, we heard gunshots. We all dived,” she recounted. Walker and her daughter, Faith, were shielded by a garbage can, which prevented them from being injured by the gunfire. “Had it not been for this garbage can, who knows what would have happened?” Walker said.
Faith, visibly saddened by the incident, shared her feelings, saying, “I was sad another little girl was shot.” Community members, shaken by the event, expressed their sadness and frustration over the continuing violence. “It’s pretty sad when a kid gets shot,” said Paul Eliacin, who also noted a pink scooter left abandoned on the ground—a heartbreaking reminder of the young life that was affected.
The shooting has raised concerns among Harlem residents, highlighting the need for continued efforts to reduce gun violence and keep neighborhoods safe. As investigations continue, the community hopes for justice for the young girl and a stronger commitment to preventing similar incidents in the future. ther the details and determine the appropriate charges.