Man wounded in chaotic NYC shootout in which another man died is arraigned on weapons charges

Weapons charges for man wounded in NYC shootout

NEW YORK — A man believed to be at the center of a chaotic New York City police shootout in which another man died has been arraigned on weapons charges.

Police initially arrested Angel Alvarez on charges including assault and attempted murder after the melee at a Harlem block party Aug. 8. But Alvarez was arraigned Monday in Manhattan criminal court only on charges of criminal possession of a weapon.

Police say Alvarez wrestled a gun away from a man with whom he was brawling, Luis Soto. Authorities say police officers in the area started firing after being shot at. They say Soto likely was killed by police bullets.

Alvarez was wounded at least 20 times in the shootout. Three bystanders and two officers also were wounded.

Defense lawyer Matthew Galluzzo says Alvarez didn’t shoot at any officers.