BRAZEN Shootout Rocks NYPD Headquarters

NYPD precinct building with signs on a city street

A brazen teen shootout erupted just one block from an NYPD station in East Harlem, forcing officers into a dangerous gunfight that left two 15-year-olds wounded and exposed how liberal “raise the age” laws are putting violent repeat offenders back on the streets.

Story Highlights

Two groups of teenagers engaged in a shootout near Police Service Area 5 in East Harlem at 5:30 p.m. on September 15
NYPD officers discharged firearms during the incident, with investigation ongoing into whether police gunfire struck the wounded teens
18-year-old suspect Damien Calhoun was arrested with a loaded high-capacity magazine and has a prior attempted murder conviction
One suspect was recently released under New York’s controversial “raise the age” law despite previous violent crimes

Officers Respond to Gunfire Near Police Station

NYPD officers finishing a 911 call at Wagner Houses heard gunshots erupting just one block away near Police Service Area 5 on East 123rd Street and Third Avenue. The brazen nature of the incident, occurring so close to a police facility, demonstrates the escalating boldness of criminal activity in the area. Officers immediately responded and observed two groups of teenagers actively exchanging gunfire in broad daylight, creating an extremely dangerous situation for both law enforcement and innocent bystanders in the neighborhood.

Police Engagement and Arrests

During the confrontation, at least one NYPD officer discharged their firearm as the situation intensified. A foot pursuit ensued after the initial engagement, leading to the apprehension of multiple suspects. Two 15-year-old boys suffered gunshot wounds to their legs and were transported to Harlem Hospital in stable condition. The NYPD’s Force Investigation Division is currently reviewing whether the teens were struck by police gunfire or by shots from the opposing group during the chaotic exchange.

Officers successfully arrested two suspects, including 18-year-old Damien Calhoun, who was found in possession of a loaded firearm with a high-capacity magazine. The recovery of such weaponry highlights the serious nature of the threat these individuals posed to public safety. Chief of Patrol Philip Rivera emphasized the dangerous circumstances officers faced and confirmed that no law enforcement personnel were injured during the incident.

Failed Liberal Justice Policies Enable Repeat Offenders

The most alarming aspect of this incident involves the background of the suspects, particularly revelations about New York’s misguided “raise the age” legislation. One of the arrested individuals has a previous conviction for attempted murder but was recently released due to this liberal policy that treats violent offenders under 18 as juveniles. This represents a fundamental failure of progressive criminal justice reform that prioritizes ideological agendas over public safety and common-sense law enforcement.

The incident underscores how soft-on-crime policies championed by previous Democratic leadership have created a revolving door justice system. These policies directly contradict traditional American values of personal responsibility and consequences for criminal behavior. Law-abiding citizens in East Harlem are now paying the price for these failed experiments in criminal justice reform that put dangerous individuals back on the streets.

Community Safety Concerns and Investigation

The NYPD is reviewing surveillance footage and body camera evidence to determine the full sequence of events and investigate potential gang connections. The proximity of this violence to a police station sends a troubling message about the current state of law and order in New York City. Local residents expressed concern about the brazenness of the attack and the ongoing threat posed by armed youth groups operating in their neighborhood.

This incident highlights the urgent need for law enforcement to have the tools and support necessary to maintain public safety. The quick response by NYPD officers likely prevented additional casualties, demonstrating the vital role police play in protecting communities. However, without meaningful reform of the juvenile justice system and stronger deterrent measures, similar incidents will continue to plague law-abiding citizens who deserve safe neighborhoods.