Brooklyn, New York — A 31-year-old man, identified as Giovanni Rivera, was tragically gunned down early Monday inside an illegal nightclub operating out of a shady storefront in Sunset Park. The shooting unfolded around 5 a.m. at the spot located on Third Avenue near 50th Street, according to police and law-enforcement sources.
Authorities say Rivera was struck by multiple bullets to the torso and back, leaving him critically wounded. The violence erupted inside the unlicensed night venue, a location already known to operate off the books in the neighborhood.
Victim Pronounced Dead at Hospital
Following the attack, Rivera — a resident of Kensington — was rushed to NYU Langone Hospital–Brooklyn, where he succumbed to his injuries just hours later. Police confirmed his death to The Post later that morning.
Suspect Arrested and Charged
Officers took Gabriel Hernandez, 27, of Greenwood Heights, into custody at the scene. By Tuesday, Hernandez had been officially charged with manslaughter and criminal possession of a weapon.
Police did not clarify whether Hernandez and Rivera had any prior connection. The motive behind the burst of violence remains under investigation, and detectives are continuing to piece together what led to the confrontation.
Precinct Homicide Numbers Show Decline
Rivera’s killing marks the second homicide recorded this year in Brooklyn’s 72nd Precinct, which includes Sunset Park. For comparison, three homicides had been reported by this time in 2024, according to NYPD data.
Investigators continue to interview witnesses and review surveillance footage as they work to understand the circumstances surrounding the deadly encounter.
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