Brooklyn mass shooting victim attempted to intervene in fight at lounge, friends report.

A mass shooting at the Taste of the City Lounge in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, on Sunday, August 17, 2025, has left three men dead and nine others injured. Among the deceased is Jamel Andre Childs, 35, who was reportedly attempting to diffuse a confrontation in the club shortly before the gunfire erupted. Sources indicate that the incident was gang-related and involved multiple shooters, with as many as four individuals firing weapons during the tragic event.

Childs, recognized as a peacemaker by friends and family, was known for his calm demeanor in tense situations. A close friend, Rajawn Philips, depicted him as someone who frequently intervened to prevent escalating conflicts in crowded environments. Philips emphasized that Childs regularly played the role of a mediator, encouraging individuals to remain composed and avoid altercations. Similarly, Childs’ brother, Richard Childs Jr., affirmed his sibling’s character, stating that Jamel had always sought to bring peace and harmony to those around him.

The shooting occurred around 3:30 a.m. at the popular lounge, located on Franklin Avenue. Witnesses report that the violence began as a dispute between two groups, which rapidly escalated into a brawl involving gunfire. Philips, who works at a nearby smoke shop, noted that Childs intervened to quell the initial argument, allowing patrons to return to their celebrations. However, tensions resurfaced, leading to the violent outbreak. Tragically, in addition to Childs, two other men aged 19 and 27 lost their lives in the incident.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the shooting, where nine additional victims sustained injuries, including both men and women. The nature of the conflict appears rooted in longstanding disputes between rival factions, which ultimately culminated in this devastating event.

The shooting has cast a somber shadow over the community, with family members and friends mourning the loss of Childs. His brother expressed profound grief, highlighting the deep connections that Jamel fostered throughout his life. This incident raises further concerns about gun violence and safety in public spaces, particularly in urban nightlife settings.

As the investigation unfolds, community leaders and law enforcement are once again faced with the urgent need to address the underlying issues contributing to such tragic episodes. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of gang-related violence and its impact on local communities.