Boy, 6, among 5 shot at Brooklyn J’Ouvert

A SIX-YEAR-OLD boy and his mother were among five people shot in Brooklyn, New York, on Monday morning, during the borough's annual J'Ouvert celebrations, US media have reported.

The shooting occurred on the intersection of Crown Street and Nostrand Avenue at around 3 am (local time).

The boy. Maxwell Cesc-Dinho, and his mother, Patricia Brathwaite, 47, along with Yves St Flavin, 40, Bob Charlotin, 46, and Kelly Barthold, 34, were all shot in either the feet or leg, according to a New York Post article. The report said the wounded were taken to Kings County Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

NY police chief of detectives Rodney Harrison said the mother and son were just getting out of a cab when they were shot.

The J'Ouvert celebration, which has its roots in the Caribbean, was cancelled this year because of covid19. However, hundreds reportedly turned out for the unofficial event, which has been marred by violence in the past.

Police said they believe the shooting is gang-related, and two suspects were arrested, although it is unclear how many were involved.

Organisers have asked for would-be participants to celebrate virtually at home. However, it is estimated that some 300 people gathered and were allowed to march by New York police. The local J'Ouvert celebration takes place in the early morning before Brooklyn’s West Indian American Day Parade.