10 young people wounded in mass shooting outside Queens nightclub

John Annese, Rocco Parascandola and Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News on Jan 2, 2025

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NEW YORK — Ten young people were wounded in a mass shooting outside a Queens nightclub holding a “celebration of life” for a man murdered three months ago, police said Thursday.

At least three gunmen opened fire about 11:15 p.m. Wednesday at a crowd of about 15 people waiting outside the the Amazura concert hall at 144th Pl. near Archer Ave. hoping to get in, cops said.

The 10 victims, six females and four males, all in the age range of about 16 to 20, were hospitalized with wounds not considered life-threatening.

Four young men, at least three of whom opened fire with a barrage of over 30 shots, ran off west on 91st St. and got into a light-colored sedan with out-of-state plates, cops said. They have not been caught.

“This is not a terrorist attack,” NYPD Chief of Patrol Philip Rivera said at an overnight press conference at the shooting scene.

“There’s zero tolerance for these senseless shootings, these horrible acts of violence on our streets,” he added. “Those responsible for this crime will be apprehended and brought to justice.”

It wasn’t immediately clear if the shooters had been inside Amazura earlier.

Clubgoers were taking part in a “celebration of life” for someone murdered in October, a police source said. That victim was born on New Year’s Day, AMNY reported, and the memorial was held to mark his birthday.

Cops are trying to determine if the shooting was sparked by tensions between rival gangs.

“That’s one of the avenues we’re pursuing but it’s too early to determine right now,” Rivera said.

The nightclub can hold up to 4,000 people and usually holds DJ dance parties and raves. DJs who have performed there in the past include Felix Bizarre, Black Daddy, and DJ X-Dream.

“We are deeply saddened by the recent and unfortunate isolated incident that occurred,” Amazura’s management wrote on Instagram. “Our hearts go out to all those affected by this senseless act. We are working closely with law enforcement to ensure a thorough investigation and to help bring those responsible to justice.”

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS. All calls will be kept confidential.