Food vendor involved in Times Square shooting felt fearful during heated confrontation.
A 21-year-old man has been charged in connection with a shooting incident involving a food vendor in Times Square, where he reportedly fired a weapon during a confrontation. The incident occurred on the evening of April 30, 2025, on Seventh Avenue and West 47th Street, leading to the injury of Ayaman Gzale, an Egyptian immigrant who was assisting a fellow vendor at the time.
Prosecutors allege that Emanuel Charles engaged in a heated argument with several vendors prior to the shooting, which resulted in Gzale being struck in the left wrist. He was later transported to Bellevue Hospital, where he currently remains in stable condition following treatment for his injuries.
In a subsequent court appearance, Judge Louis Nock set bail for Charles at 5,000 in cash or 0,000 in bond, with his next court date scheduled for May 5. Assistant District Attorney Danielle Bluth presented evidence suggesting that Charles, after firing multiple shots, attempted to flee the scene. Video footage reportedly shows him walking away from the location before turning back, crossing the street, and discharging his firearm multiple times. The chaotic nature of the scene was underscored by the footage, which captured bystanders fleeing in response to the gunfire.
Following the shooting, Bluth noted that Charles entered the subway system in an apparent attempt to evade law enforcement, even attempting to board a train as police pursued him. Such actions have raised significant concerns regarding public safety, as the incident unfolded in one of New York City’s most crowded tourist destinations.
Charles’ attorney, Omar Fortune, contended that the charges against his client lacked clarity and rationale. He highlighted that Charles is a high school graduate who has never encountered legal issues before this incident. Fortune argued that his client’s reaction was driven by fear rather than a clear intent to commit a crime, describing him as someone who has established ties within the community.
Support for Charles was evident, with friends and family expressing their encouragement and solidarity during the court proceedings. His mother, speaking to the media, emphasized her son’s connections and support network, labeling the situation as “crazy.” As the legal process unfolds, community members and authorities alike are closely monitoring the case, which raises broader questions about safety and violence in public spaces.
