Authorities in New York City are on the hunt for a masked assailant who is accused of shooting a young cab driver in the face amid a late-night heist in Brooklyn.
As reported by Fox 5 New York from a NYPD press release, the incident unfolded around 4 a.m. on Saturday. The target was a TLC-licensed livery cab, a type of taxi frequently used for pre-arranged transport rather than picking up street-hailing passengers.
The law enforcement officials disclosed that the suspected gunman entered the cab, allegedly menaced the driver while demanding cash and the vehicle’s keys.
Police confirm that a 21-year-old livery driver was shot in the face during an attempted robbery at night in Brooklyn. (STAN HONDA/AFP via Getty Images; NYPD Crime Stoppers/Fox 5 New York)
The driver was trying to flee the cab when the suspect discharged his weapon, resulting in a bullet striking the driver in the face.
“The victim proceeded to exit the vehicle when the unidentified individual discharged a firearm striking the 21-year-old male victim in the face,” police said.
The suspect fled the scene on foot after stealing “an unknown amount of currency,” police said.
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Authorities are searching for an armed gunman who allegedly shot a New York City cab driver before fleeing on foot with cash. (NYPD Crime Stoppers/Fox 5 New York)
Authorities noted that the suspect did not take anything else from the vehicle.
Police received reports of the incident at approximately 4:15 a.m.
Emergency Medical Services responded and transported the victim to a local hospital in stable condition. The NYPD also described the shooting as non-fatal.
The NYPD released footage of a suspect wanted in connection with the armed robbery and shooting of a Brooklyn cab driver. (NYPD Crime Stoppers/Fox 5 New York)
Authorities are asking for the public’s help identifying the suspect, who was last seen wearing blue shorts, a black sweatshirt, a black surgical mask and black shoes while carrying a black backpack.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). Spanish speakers can call 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Tips can also be submitted through the NYPD Crime Stoppers website or on X @NYPDTips.