AT LEAST three people have been killed in a shooting at a New York City restaurant as police hunt for multiple suspects.
Another eight people were injured as emergency services swarmed the Crown Heights area in Brooklyn shortly before 3:30am.
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At least 7 people have been injured in a shooting in Crown Heights area of BrooklynCredit: Salim1/Citizen
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Emergency services swarmed 903 Franklin Ave with the suspect reportedly still on the runCredit: Salim1/Citizen
Multiple reports of gunfire were made around closing time at the Taste of the City Lounge on 903 Franklin Ave.
Police found three deceased male victims inside with two being identified as 27 and 35, according to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
The age of the third is yet to be confirmed.
Another eight people were urgently transported to local hospitals.
Their conditions remain unknown.
Footage from the scene shows police lights flashing as ambulances rush down the street.
Witnesses said on social media a police cordon has been put in place with “crime tape stretched for blocks”.
Local media have said the suspect is still on the run.
The New York Police Department confirmed: “There are no arrests at this time, and the investigation is ongoing.”
The NYPD have urged residents to avoid the area while investigations are ongoing.
Officers have been reviewing CCTV footage from the area and are interviewing witnesses to try and piece together the shooting.
Investigators are urging anyone with any information to come forward.
‘Three people shot’ after gunman opens fire in Times Square
Taste of the City Lounge is a popular American and Caribbean diner with a full bar, hookah, and DJs.
It follows another horror shooting in Times Square last week which left three people injured.
A teenage gunman opened fire in the popular tourist hotspot as footage showed panicked crowds fleeing as cops swarmed a vehicle.
Police told The Sun that gunfire erupted at 1.20am after a “verbal dispute between two people escalated”.
A 65-year-old man and a 19-year-old man suffered gunshot wounds – while an 18-year-old woman was rushed to hospital with a wound to her neck.
How safe is New York City for tourists?
NEW York City is one of America’s biggest tourist magnets, but recent events have left many wondering: Is it safe to visit?
Many areas of the popular city, including Times Square, are some of the most heavily policed areas in the state of New York.
But like any major tourist hotspot, it comes with its own set of safety considerations that smart visitors should know about.
The NYPD maintains a significant presence in the city year-round, with both uniformed officers and plainclothes detectives patrolling regularly.
Statistically, your chances of experiencing serious crime in areas such as Times Square are relatively low.
The area sees minor crimes like pickpocketing and scams targeting tourists, but violent incidents like shootings remain uncommon, given the foot traffic volume.