Seven people died on Saturday in a violent incident at a supermarket in Buffalo, New York, according to reports from CNBC4, which cited police sources. The attack occurred inside a Tops supermarket located near downtown Buffalo, a city in the far northern part of New York state known for its diverse neighborhoods and close-knit communities.
Local authorities, specifically the Provincial Police Department, confirmed that the incident unfolded at the Tops store. Buffalo has faced tough times in recent years, but this event marks another sudden tragedy that has shaken residents and prompted a swift response from law enforcement and emergency services.
In the absence of official figures, Buffalo News reported a higher death toll, noting that ten people had died. The newspaper also indicated that three others were injured, with two of the injured described as seriously hurt. The evolving numbers reflect the chaotic nature of the scene and the complexity of documenting such events in real time.
Witnesses described multiple gunshots as chaos erupted inside the store. Police reported that the shooter was taken into custody, though details about the motive or the shooter’s identity were not immediately disclosed. A brief update from authorities indicated that the assailant opened fire on shoppers and staff, leading to an immediate emergency response and the securing of the scene.
According to CNBC4, citing three law enforcement sources, the attacker entered the Jefferson Avenue supermarket shortly after 2:30 p.m. local time and fired at least eight people, resulting in seven fatalities and one person in critical condition. The timeline underscores how quickly a routine shopping trip can turn into a catastrophe, shocking families and neighbors who were in the area at the time.
Some sources reported that the shooter appeared to be dressed in military-style clothing, and investigators were exploring whether the attack carried ideological motivations, including white supremacist beliefs. The ongoing inquiry has drawn attention to broader concerns about extremist violence and the impact of such ideologies on community safety and social cohesion.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul issued a message on social media shortly after the incident, indicating close oversight of the situation and pledging support to local law enforcement and responders as they work to understand what happened and to reassure residents. Her statement reflected the state’s commitment to a coordinated response and to providing resources for the affected families and communities.
ABC7 quoted a witness who described the confusion and fear inside the store, noting that between 20 and 30 shots were heard as the situation unfolded. The account highlighted the abruptness of the event and the lasting emotional impact on those who witnessed it, including the fear of returning to normal daily routines in the aftermath.