A celebratory evening in New York City turned into a scene of panic on Sunday night after gunfire broke out near the historic Stonewall Inn, shortly following the conclusion of an LGBTQ+ Pride parade. According to New York City Mayor Eric Adams and local authorities, two individuals were injured in the shooting, which took place just blocks from the site widely regarded as the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.
The incident, which is now under active investigation, has reignited concerns about public safety at large-scale LGBTQ+ events, particularly amid rising political tensions and anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric nationwide.
The Incident
The shooting occurred around 11 p.m. near Christopher Street and Seventh Avenue, an area that had been filled with crowds throughout the day celebrating Pride. The gunfire caused people to flee in panic, many of whom had gathered around the Stonewall Inn — a national historic landmark deeply symbolic to the LGBTQ+ community.
According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), two people were struck by gunfire and transported to nearby hospitals. Both victims are currently reported to be in stable condition. As of Monday morning, no suspects have been arrested, and investigators are working to determine whether the shooting was targeted or random.
Mayor Eric Adams confirmed the incident during a press briefing, calling it a “disturbing disruption of what should have been a peaceful and joyful evening.”
Community Reaction and Concerns
The LGBTQ+ community in New York City and beyond responded with shock and sorrow. Many took to social media to express concern, while some activists and community leaders raised questions about whether the attack may have been motivated by bias.
While officials have not confirmed a motive, some fear that the proximity of the shooting to the Pride event and to the Stonewall Inn itself may not be coincidental. The location is deeply symbolic: in June 1969, a police raid at the Stonewall Inn sparked protests that catalyzed the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement.
“Stonewall represents resilience, resistance, and pride,” said Jay W. Walker, an LGBTQ+ activist in Manhattan. “To have violence erupt there during Pride sends a chilling message — whether intentional or not.”
Organizers of the NYC Pride events have called for increased security measures and a full investigation. “We will not be intimidated,” a spokesperson for Heritage of Pride, the nonprofit behind NYC Pride, said in a statement. “Our community deserves to celebrate who we are without fear.”
Rising Security Concerns at LGBTQ+ Events
This year’s Pride celebrations across the United States have taken place amid heightened security and concern. Numerous events have increased police presence following threats, protests, and legislative efforts in several states that target LGBTQ+ rights — particularly those of transgender individuals.
While New York City has long been seen as a haven for LGBTQ+ culture and activism, incidents like Sunday’s shooting underscore the continuing risks faced by the community.
NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban emphasized that the department is taking the incident seriously. “We are deploying additional resources throughout Pride Month and are reviewing surveillance footage to identify those responsible,” he said.
Political Leaders Respond
Several elected officials quickly condemned the violence. Governor Kathy Hochul released a statement via social media: “New York stands with our LGBTQ+ community. An attack near Stonewall is an attack on all of us. We will not tolerate hate or violence.”
City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams called for solidarity and vigilance. “This was meant to be a night of joy and reflection. Instead, we are reminded that the fight for equality and safety is far from over.”
The shooting near Stonewall Inn serves as a stark reminder that even in places steeped in history and pride, safety cannot be taken for granted. As the investigation continues, the LGBTQ+ community and allies across the country are once again called to stand together — not only in celebration, but in defense of the right to gather, to love, and to live without fear.