Man Shot Critically Near Bronx Crotona Park Pool

A 21-year-old man was critically injured after being shot in the neck near the entrance to Crotona Park Pool in the Bronx on Sunday afternoon. The shooting occurred around 3:30 p.m. at Fulton Avenue and East 173rd Street, with the victim found unconscious and quickly transported to St. Barnabas Hospital. The motive remains unknown, and no suspect description has been released as police continue their investigation. This incident unfolded during a relatively calm July 4th weekend, which NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch described as the safest in recent memory despite a few other violent incidents in the city. While shootings and homicides have generally decreased citywide, the 42nd Precinct, which includes Crotona Park, has seen a slight increase in such crimes compared to last year. Community members have noted ongoing gang activity and violence in the area, highlighting persistent safety concerns despite the pool's seasonal opening and local efforts to maintain peace.