Authorities in New York City have charged a 17-year-old suspect with multiple offenses, including murder, following a triple shooting in Times Square early Saturday morning.

The incident occurred near West 44th Street and Seventh Avenue just before 1:30 am, according to the NYPD. Police said an 18-year-old woman was grazed in the neck, a 19-year-old man was shot in the foot, and a 65-year-old man was struck in the left leg. All three were taken to a local hospital and are expected to survive.

Investigators believe the shooting began as a verbal dispute between the suspect and the 19-year-old victim. A firearm was recovered near the scene. The teen faces charges of murder, two counts of attempted murder, three counts of assault, three counts of reckless endangerment, and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon.

Police said the murder charge was filed because the intended target was struck by gunfire, even though no fatalities occurred.

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In a separate incident, six people, including a five-year-old girl, were wounded in a mass shooting in the Park Heights neighborhood of Baltimore, Maryland, according to CBS News, citing local police.

Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley said the child was shot in the arm and did not suffer life-threatening injuries. One man remains in critical condition, while the conditions of the other victims have not been disclosed. No suspects have been identified, and the investigation is ongoing.

Rise in mass shootings, gun violence

This comes as the United States continues to grapple with a disturbing rise in mass shootings and gun violence, a trend that shows no sign of slowing. From schools and shopping malls to places of worship and military bases, nearly every corner of public life has been touched by deadly gunfire.

According to data from the Gun Violence Archive, the country has already recorded hundreds of mass shootings this year alone, highlighting the persistent and complex nature of America’s gun crisis.

Experts point to a mix of factors, including widespread firearm access, inadequate mental health support, and political gridlock on gun control legislation, as contributors to the escalating violence. As communities mourn and lawmakers debate, many Americans are left questioning when meaningful action will replace thoughts and prayers.

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