NEW YORK (AP) – The West Indian Day Parade is underway in New York City, but it’s already been marred by violence.
One man was stabbed to death early Monday in Brooklyn, and others were wounded by gunfire. Gov. Andrew Cuomo says a man critically injured by a random bullet to the head is a Harvard-educated lawyer who works for the Empire State Development Corporation.
The raucous parade celebrating Caribbean culture features outlandish costumes, indigenous foods, loud music and scores of dancers.
It’s also a significant political moment. Elected officials from across the city attended a breakfast before marching.
The festivities are expected to be the first time since July that Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio attend the same public event. The two have been engaged in a monthslong feud.