Published on December 31, 2024, at 05:35h. 

Last updated on December 31, 2024, at 05:35h.

A man who was fatally shot in the head during an attempted robbery at an alleged gaming room in Queens, New York has passed away, as confirmed by the police on Monday.

Yun Li, 37, a resident of Flushing, Queens, passed away on December 23 after being rushed to New York-Presbyterian Queens Hospital following the December 19 incident in the basement of a Haight Street building, according to authorities.

Medical Efforts to Save the Victim

Although Li underwent emergency surgery and was initially in critical condition, he succumbed to his injuries four days later. His death has been ruled a homicide, and the suspects may face murder charges.

Another man was also shot during the robbery attempt at the gaming room, sustaining a gunshot wound to the cheek. The 42-year-old victim was also taken to New York-Presbyterian Queens Hospital, where he received treatment and was later discharged, as reported by the New York Daily News. His identity has not been disclosed in the media.

As of now, the New York City Police Department (NYPD) is actively seeking three suspects linked to the failed robbery.

Witnesses observed the men entering a white SUV near the crime scene, with a woman also seen inside the vehicle, according to reports.

The suspects fled the scene in the SUV, which may have sustained damage to the front end, as per police statements.

There is no update on whether the police have identified the suspects. Authorities have reportedly reviewed surveillance footage near the crime scene in an attempt to locate the individuals involved.

Presence of Illegal Gambling in the Area

Local residents mentioned that there are underground gambling establishments in the vicinity of the crime scene.

Violence is a rare occurrence in these gambling dens, but when it does happen, it instills fear among residents, workers, and business owners, as noted by the Daily News.

“I think this happens a lot. It’s just only this time people were shot,” a cabinet maker shared with the Daily News. “This place is crazy right now.”

When I saw [the cops] locking down the street, I just told my co-worker this morning, ‘I’m planning to move out,’” the cabinet maker added in an interview hours after the violent holdup.

Nationwide, law enforcement agencies caution that illegal gambling can lead to incidents of violent crime.