June 25, 2025 BRONX, NY – A night of summer fun turned into an unimaginable tragedy in Crotona Park on Tuesday, when a 17-year-old was fatally shot during a water gun fight. The victim, identified as Darrell Harris, was pronounced dead at Jacobi Hospital after sustaining a gunshot wound to the head and right arm.

The incident unfolded around 8:15 p.m. when Harris was reportedly struck by water from what authorities believe was a water gun or gel blaster. According to preliminary reports, Harris turned to confront the individual, telling them to stop. It was then, police say, that the suspect escalated the situation by pulling out a real firearm and opening fire.

The suspect fled the scene immediately after the shooting. As of Wednesday morning, no arrests have been made, and the motive behind the fatal act remains unknown. Authorities have stated that Darrell Harris had no prior interactions with the police.

The New York Police Department has launched an investigation into the shooting. Detectives are urging anyone with information to come forward as they work to piece together the events that led to this senseless loss of life.

This developing story highlights the increasing concerns about gun violence in urban parks. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.

Crotona Park