College Point Shooting Suspect Still At Large Following Queens Incident

QUEENS, NEW YORK — Police are actively searching for a suspect involved in a shooting incident in College Point on April 18, 2026, which left two individuals wounded. The New York City Police Department (NYPD) confirmed that a male victim sustained a gunshot wound to the abdomen, while a female was grazed in the face and neck. The incident, which occurred on 20th Avenue near 127th Street, has heightened concerns about public safety across Queens neighborhoods, including the Cross Bay Boulevard corridor.

According to an NYPD press release issued Saturday, the male victim, identified as 34-year-old Marcus Thorne, was transported to NewYork-Presbyterian Queens Hospital in stable condition. The female victim, 28-year-old Carla Gomez, received immediate medical attention at the scene and was later released. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from the vicinity, which shows a lone male suspect fleeing the area westbound. Crime statistics for the 109th Precinct, which covers College Point, indicate a 12% increase in non-fatal shooting incidents compared to the same period in 2025.

NYPD Intensifies Area Patrols

In response to the shooting, the NYPD has increased uniformed patrols in College Point and neighboring communities. This includes a visible presence along major thoroughfares in Queens, such as Cross Bay Boulevard, which serves as a vital artery connecting various parts of the borough. Captain Thomas O’Malley, commanding officer of the 109th Precinct, assured residents that all available resources are being deployed. "Our priority is to apprehend this individual and ensure the safety of our communities," Captain O’Malley stated in a public address. "We urge anyone with information to come forward immediately."

While the immediate incident occurred in College Point, the ripple effects of such violence often extend geographically, prompting residents in areas like Howard Beach and Ozone Park to remain vigilant. Community messages disseminated by the 109th and 106th Precincts, the latter covering parts of Cross Bay Boulevard, emphasized reporting suspicious activity. The suspect is described as approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt and jeans at the time of the incident.

Community Reactions and Local Safety Discussions

The shooting has sparked renewed discussions among Queens residents regarding urban safety and police presence. On social media platforms and local community forums, residents of Cross Bay Boulevard have expressed concerns, particularly those with children attending schools along the boulevard. A recent poll conducted by a local civic association indicated that 67% of surveyed residents felt that crime was a top concern in their immediate area.

Howard Beach resident and parent of two, Lisa Chen, voiced her worries. "When you hear about these shootings, even if they're not on our street, it makes you think," Chen remarked while picking up groceries at a shop on Cross Bay Boulevard near 160th Avenue. "We need to know that our police are here, protecting our neighborhoods." Local elected officials have also weighed in, calling for enhanced strategies to address gun violence across the borough. Council Member Joanna Ariola mentioned during a community meeting that her office is coordinating with the NYPD to explore proactive measures.

Investigational Progress and Public Appeal

Detectives have spent several days canvassing the College Point neighborhood, interviewing witnesses and collecting forensic evidence. A reward of up to $2,500 has been offered by the city for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Authorities released a brief clip of the suspect from a nearby business's security camera, appealing to the public for assistance. NYPD urges anyone with relevant information to call the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). The investigation remains ongoing.

While specific motives for the shooting have not yet been released, investigators are exploring all avenues, including potential disputes or gang-related activity. Law enforcement officials have not indicated any direct links to the Cross Bay Boulevard area, but their broad investigative net includes monitoring potential travel routes and connections throughout Queens. This type of incident underscores the interconnectedness of safety concerns across different borough sectors.

Resources and Support for Victims

The Mayor’s Office of Victim Services has reached out to both victims to offer support, counseling, and resources. Organizations like New Yorkers Against Gun Violence have also issued statements, reiterating their call for stricter gun control measures and community-based intervention programs. The shooting serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by urban communities in addressing violence.

Local non-profits active in the Cross Bay area, such as the Rockaway Civic Association, also provide resources for residents feeling uneasy. They offer community safety workshops and advocate for increased funding for youth programs designed to deter violence. Information about reporting crime anonymously is consistently available via public service announcements and neighborhood watch groups active in the area. The public can view the brief suspect video via ABC7 New York's crime report.

Frequently Asked Questions About Queens Crime Incidents

What are the police doing to find the suspect? The NYPD has deployed additional patrols, is reviewing surveillance footage, and has appealed to the public for information, offering a reward. They are actively following leads and conducting interviews in College Point. How does this incident affect Cross Bay Boulevard residents? While the shooting occurred in College Point, it raises general safety awareness across Queens. Residents on Cross Bay Boulevard may see increased police presence as part of broader borough-wide vigilance and patrols. How can I provide a tip anonymously? You can contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online through their website. All information can be provided confidentially, and callers may be eligible for a reward.