Multiple Mount Vernon residents reported hearing what they believed were gunshots early Thursday morning on East First Street, prompting a response from emergency personnel.
According to folks we talked to in the area, the incident occurred at approximately 3:11 AM EST. One resident said they heard a woman scream, “Oh, shit,” moments before what several neighbors described as a series of loud bangs. Shortly afterward, multiple emergency vehicles (Police and Fire Department) were seen responding to the area.
Several residents who talked to Black Westchester, but requested and were granted anonymity for their safety, said they believed the sounds were gunfire.
“It sure sounded like it,” said one elderly man who was near North Third Avenue at the time. Another witness, who said he was near FoodTown on East Prospect Avenue, estimated hearing “at least eight shots.” A third resident reported hearing approximately five loud bangs that they also believed were gunshots.
As of publication, authorities had not publicly confirmed whether gunfire had occurred or whether anyone was injured. The exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear. Black Westchester contacted the Mount Vernon Police Department for comment. A department spokesperson said they could not comment on the incident.
Residents in the neighborhood said the sounds raised alarms and drew several to their windows as emergency vehicles arrived.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be reported as it becomes available and is confirmed through official sources or further reporting.
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the MVPD by calling their non-emergency communications line at (914) 665-2500 or the Detective Division directly at (914) 665-2510 or email us at BlackWestchesterMag@gmail.com
