Jamaica, Queens – A 34-year-aged man was fatally shot early Saturday morning inside a Queens sports bar, sparking a police investigation and a search for the perpetrator. The incident occurred at El Catracho Sports Bar, located at 184-15 Jamaica Ave. In the Hollis neighborhood, at approximately 1:45 a.m. On February 21, 2026. The shooting is the latest in a string of violent incidents to plague New York City nightlife, raising concerns about safety at entertainment venues.
Police identified the victim as Denis Nunez, a resident of 155th Street in South Jamaica, Queens. According to authorities, Nunez sustained gunshot wounds to his stomach and left shoulder. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) transported him to Jamaica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under investigation, and police have not yet released details regarding a potential motive.
The 103rd Precinct responded to a 911 call reporting an assault in progress at the El Catracho Sports Bar. Upon arrival, officers found Nunez suffering from the gunshot wounds. Witnesses described a chaotic scene following the shooting, with individuals attempting to assist the victim. According to reports, two men rushed Nunez out of the bar and placed him into a truck, which was subsequently taken into police custody as evidence. The vehicle was thoroughly examined by crime scene investigators.
Investigation Underway, Suspect at Large
As of Saturday afternoon, the suspect remained at large. Police stated that the individual fled the scene heading west on Jamaica Avenue immediately after the shooting. Detectives are actively reviewing security footage from the bar and surrounding businesses in an effort to identify and apprehend the suspect. Investigators are also interviewing witnesses to gather more information about the events that transpired leading up to the shooting. The NYPD is urging anyone with information to come forward.
The shooting at El Catracho Sports Bar comes amid heightened scrutiny of safety at establishments that host large gatherings. Even as the investigation is ongoing, the incident underscores the potential for violence even in seemingly secure environments. The NYPD has increased patrols in the area surrounding the bar in an attempt to reassure residents and deter further criminal activity.
Recent Crime Statistics in the 103rd Precinct
According to the latest CompStat report, through February 15, 2026, the 103rd Precinct, which covers the Hollis area, had not recorded a murder or shooting incident year-to-date. This report details crime statistics within the precinct, offering a broader context for the recent shooting. However, the incident at El Catracho Sports Bar represents a significant escalation in violence within the community.
The shooting is also notable as it is the third shooting to occur at a New York City bar or nightclub within the past week, according to police reports. This cluster of incidents has prompted calls for increased security measures at entertainment venues across the city. City officials are considering a range of options, including enhanced security protocols, increased police presence, and stricter enforcement of existing regulations.
How to Provide Information to the NYPD
Anyone with information regarding the shooting at El Catracho Sports Bar is urged to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) for English speakers, or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish speakers. Information can also be submitted online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org or via direct message on X (formerly Twitter) to @NYPDTips. All calls and submissions are kept confidential, and authorities emphasize the importance of any information, no matter how small, that could assist in the investigation.
The investigation remains active and ongoing. Police are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses in an effort to piece together the events that led to the death of Denis Nunez. The community is left grappling with the loss and seeking answers as authorities work to bring the perpetrator to justice. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges of gun violence and the importance of community involvement in ensuring public safety.
Authorities have not released information regarding any potential connections between this shooting and the other recent incidents at New York City nightlife establishments. However, investigators are exploring all possible leads and considering whether the shootings may be linked. The NYPD is committed to ensuring the safety of all New Yorkers and will continue to work diligently to address the issue of gun violence.
The El Catracho Sports Bar remains closed as the investigation continues. It is unclear when the establishment will reopen to the public. The bar is a popular gathering place for residents of the Hollis neighborhood, and its closure is expected to have a significant impact on the local community.
The death of Denis Nunez is a tragedy that has deeply affected the Queens community. As the investigation progresses, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing the responsible party to justice. The NYPD remains committed to providing updates as they become available.
The next update from the NYPD regarding this case is expected within 72 hours, pending the analysis of forensic evidence and the completion of witness interviews. We encourage readers to share this article and to contact the NYPD with any information they may have. Your contribution, however small, could be crucial to solving this case.