Shooting triggers panic at Times Square (VIDEOS)

Panic broke out in the heart of Manhattan on Thursday afternoon after gunfire erupted in Times Square, sending tourists, commuters, and street vendors scrambling for cover in one of the world’s busiest tourist destinations.

The shots were fired shortly before 4pm near West 44th Street and Seventh Avenue, according to the NYPD.

Videos from the scene showed the square’s usual bustle turning into chaos after several loud bangs rang out. EarthCam footage appeared to show two people running into the street, pulling out weapons, and opening fire before fleeing the scene.

Police officers quickly chased down one suspect, took him into custody, and recovered one gun. The suspect’s identity was not released, but police said he is under 18. The motive remains unclear, as officials are still investigating whether the shooting was random or targeted.

The Fire Department said one person was taken to a hospital, though further details were not immediately released. CBS New York, citing police, reported that no one was injured, leaving the casualty picture unclear in the immediate aftermath.

The incident unfolded just hours after crowds had flooded Manhattan for the New York Knicks’ championship parade, which took place elsewhere in the city. Officials said the Times Square shooting was not connected to the parade, where around 10,000 police officers had been deployed for security.

The scare also comes as New York is already packed with football fans for the ongoing FIFA World Cup, with even larger crowds expected as the New York/New Jersey area braces for the tournament final at MetLife Stadium on July 19.