Feuding Dollar Van Drivers Ends in Deadly Brooklyn Drive-by Shooting: Sources
Shooting Occurs in Brooklyn’s East Flatbush Neighborhood
A dollar van driver was shot and killed around lunchtime on Sunday following a dispute with a second driver, law enforcement sources confirmed to NBC New York. The two dollar van drivers were in Brooklyn’s East Flatbush neighborhood just before 1 p.m. when someone opened fire, police said.
Victim Pronounced Dead at Kings County Hospital
One of the drivers, a man in his 20s, was struck in the arm. Police said he was pronounced dead at Kings County Hospital a short time later.
Suspect Flees the Scene in White Van
The suspect that allegedly opened fire took off in a white van, according to police. It wasn’t immediately clear if there were any passengers on board any of the dollar vans at the time of the shooting.
Investigation Underway
The shooting was still under investigation hours later, but law enforcement sources believe the gunfire followed a dispute between two dollar van drivers.
A Brief History of Dollar Vans in New York City
Dollar vans started in New York City around the time of the transit strike in 1980, according to the New York Times. Drivers would help shuttle New Yorkers around for only $1. Although they have declined in popularity since, dollar vans are still a mainstay for many people getting around the city.
Conclusion
The shooting is a tragic reminder of the ongoing violence and disputes that can occur in the city. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
FAQs
* What is a dollar van?
+ A dollar van is a type of minivan that operates as a shared ride service, picking up and dropping off passengers along a fixed route for a fixed fee, typically $1.
* How did dollar vans originate in New York City?
+ Dollar vans started in New York City around the time of the transit strike in 1980, when taxi and bus drivers went on strike, and private operators filled the void by offering affordable transportation options.
* Are dollar vans still popular in New York City?
+ Although they have declined in popularity since their peak in the 1990s, dollar vans are still a mainstay for many people getting around the city.
