Crime
6 injured in shooting near West Indian Jouvert parade celebration in New York City
The NYPD is searching for a male suspect in his 20s.
Gunfire erupted during Brooklyn’s vibrant West Indian Day Parade on Monday, leaving six people injured, two critically. The incident occurred around 2:35 pm along the parade route at 307 Eastern Pkwy. in Crown Heights.
Authorities believe a single gunman intentionally fired into a crowd of spectators lining the sidewalk. One victim suffered a head wound, another was shot in the arm, and a third in the torso. An additional man and woman were also struck – the woman in the shoulder. Two of the victims are in critical condition.
“This was a deliberate act targeting a group, not a random shooting,” stated NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell. While police believe the shooter had a specific target, the investigation is ongoing to identify them.
Chief Chell confirmed the shooting occurred “on the concrete divider between the service road and the parade route,” where thousands were gathered.
The NYPD is searching for a male suspect in his 20s and is urging anyone with video footage of the incident to come forward.
This tragedy marred an otherwise joyous celebration of Brooklyn’s rich cultural heritage. Despite increased security measures implemented to prevent violence, this incident underscores the ongoing challenge of gun violence in our communities.
If you have any information about the shooting or the suspect’s whereabouts, contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-577-TIPS (Spanish: 888-57-PISTA). Tips can also be submitted online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org or on X (formerly Twitter) @NYPDTips.
SANTA ANA, CA — Community members are expressing outrage and concern following the release of Alejandro Acosta Oliveros, a 45-year-old Santa Ana resident, who has been accused of abducting, torturing, and killing numerous cats throughout Orange County.
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Oliveros has been released on bail and is now back in the community as the investigation continues.
Dubbed a “serial cat killer” by law enforcement, Oliveros was arrested earlier this week after Santa Ana Police officers executed a search warrant at his residence on Wilshire Avenue.
Authorities reported that Oliveros confessed to the crimes during questioning, though the full extent of his actions remains under active investigation.
Officials have yet to determine how many animals were harmed, but investigators have stated that the number is believed to be “significant.”
According to a spokesperson for the Santa Ana Police Department, “We are still working to determine the scope of this case and how many cats may have been victimized. The cruelty involved is deeply disturbing.”
Community concern has mounted in recent weeks, as residents across Santa Ana and neighboring areas began sharing surveillance footage and firsthand reports of cats being lured, abducted, and later found injured or deceased.
One widely shared video from March 21 in Westminster showed a man, believed to be Oliveros, capturing Clubber, a 10-month-old Bengal Lynx cat.
While Clubber was eventually recovered and returned to his home, the suspect remained at large—until his arrest this week.
Disturbing reports later emerged indicating that many of the missing cats may have been killed. Posts from platforms like Nextdoor recounted chilling details of cats being restrained or allegedly injected with unknown substances.
In one report, a neighbor stated: “We saw the man tie a cat’s legs and walk off toward McFadden.” Another added: “My neighbor’s cat was killed. He was injected with something and didn’t survive.”
Despite the severity of the charges, Oliveros was released on bail shortly after his arrest.
This development has alarmed residents, animal advocates, and grieving pet owners who say they now fear for the safety of their pets—and for the wellbeing of their community.
“This is not just about one person’s loss. This is about protecting countless animals who deserve safety, love, and life,” said one resident. “We need to remain vigilant, speak out, and demand justice.”
The public is strongly encouraged to take the following steps:
- Report any suspicious behavior toward animals to local law enforcement or animal control immediately.
- Speak with neighbors and friends to raise awareness about the situation.
- Contact local officials and media outlets to demand accountability and advocate for stricter laws to prevent animal cruelty.
- Support victims and families who are grieving the loss of beloved pets.
The Santa Ana Police Department has stated that formal charges are expected to be filed soon and emphasized that the investigation is ongoing.
Authorities continue to gather evidence and encourage anyone with information to come forward.
Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the Santa Ana Police Department at (714) 245-8665.
The community’s continued cooperation and vigilance will be essential in seeking justice for the animals affected and ensuring that those responsible are held fully accountable.