Suspect sought in connection with shooting near gun violence awareness event

Mount Vernon police are searching for the person who allegedly fired shots near a gun violence awareness event on Friday evening.

According to detectives, police officers were already outside the Doles Center to attend the National Gun Violence Awareness Day event near 6th Avenue and 4th Street when they heard the gunshots.

Police tried to pursue the suspect but were unable to catch him.

The incident occurred as Mount Vernon and other cities around the Hudson Valley sought to prevent gun violence in their communities.

“Someone tried to settle a dispute in a negative way, but we didn’t let that ruin our celebration. This is just another reason why we need to continue to hold these events,” said Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard.

According to police, no one was hit by the shots and there is no evidence of property damage.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact the Mount Vernon Police Department Detective Division at 914-665-2510. All calls will be treated confidentially.

Anyone can also submit an anonymous tip through the department’s Text-A-Tip feature by texting “MVPD” and the tip to 847411.