Brooklyn, New York — Two men were wounded in a brazen daytime shooting inside a Brooklyn deli Friday afternoon, as police continue searching for the gunman responsible. Authorities say the suspect fled the scene and remains at large, prompting a $5,000 reward offer for information leading to an arrest.
The shooting occurred around 3:47 p.m. inside Alex Deli & Grocery, located at 1256 Flatbush Avenue, according to the New York City Police Department.
Gunfire erupts inside neighborhood deli
Police said a 24-year-old man was shot in the face, while a 26-year-old man was struck in the back when gunfire erupted inside the deli.
Both victims were rushed to Kings County Hospital, where they were listed in stable condition. Investigators have not confirmed whether the men were employees of the bodega or customers inside the store at the time of the shooting.
“Both victims are expected to survive,” an NYPD spokesperson said.
Suspect flees on foot
According to police sources, the suspected shooter was last seen wearing:
- A black puffer jacket
- A ski mask
- Ripped navy jeans
- Black-and-white sneakers
After the shooting, the suspect reportedly fled westbound on Newkirk Avenue, disappearing into the surrounding neighborhood.
As of Friday evening, no arrests had been made, and the weapon used in the shooting had not been recovered.
Motive still unclear
Authorities said they have not yet determined a motive for the shooting. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from the deli and nearby businesses, as well as interviewing witnesses who were in the area at the time.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Bodega association offers reward, calls for action
In response to the shooting, the United Bodegas Association condemned the violence and announced a $5,000 reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of those responsible.
“We need funding for panic buttons and real security measures,” said Fernando Mateo, speaking on behalf of the organization. “Our members cannot do this alone. The City and the State must step up to protect the men and women who own and operate these bodegas.”
The association said bodega workers across the city continue to face increasing violence, particularly during routine daytime hours.
Community safety concerns grow
The shooting has heightened concerns among residents and small business owners in the Flatbush area, where bodegas often serve as neighborhood hubs.
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Community advocates have repeatedly called for:
- Enhanced security funding
- Panic buttons inside bodegas
- Faster police response tools
- Stronger protections for workers
Friday’s incident adds to a growing list of violent crimes targeting or occurring inside small businesses across the city.
Police ask for public help
The NYPD is urging anyone with information about the shooting or the suspect’s whereabouts to come forward.
Tips can be submitted by calling:
- Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477)
- For Spanish: 1-888-57-PISTA (74782)
All tips can be made anonymously.
As the investigation continues, police say increased patrols may be deployed in the area. For now, the search for the gunman remains active as the community waits for answers.
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