A shooting at a Fourth of July cookout near New York’s Coney Island beach left eight people wounded, including four children, according to police.The incident occurred Saturday night in the courtyard of an apartment building adjacent to the famed Coney Island boardwalk and near the site of the Nathan’s Famous hot dog eating contest.Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed that a suspect wearing a black mask fired into the courtyard where a family had gathered for a cookout.The shooter fled the scene, but authorities recovered a gun.One of the victims, a 21-year-old woman, was in critical condition, while the others were described as stable and expected to survive.Tisch noted there were no reports of prior disturbances at the gathering.The children involved were aged 6, 7, 12, and 14.The incident has sparked calls for increased security in public spaces during festive events.Authorities are investigating the motive behind the attack and have urged residents to remain vigilant.The tragedy highlights the risks of gun violence in crowded areas and the importance of community safety measures during celebrations.