Police officer in front of NYPD car and EMS vehicle at scene of crime in Queens

File — Police are investigating a shooting Queens.

Photo by Dean Moses

Detectives in Queens are on the hunt for a gunman who shot and killed a man outside a strip club early on Thursday morning in an apparent robbery attempt.

According to police sources, the deadly incident unfolded at about 3:45 a.m. on Sept. 24 outside of the Riviera Gentleman’s Club, located at 34-48 Steinway St. in Astoria.

Based on a preliminary investigation, police reported that the gunman approached the 45-year-old victim from behind and attempted to rob him of his jewelry. During the struggle, the suspect opened fire, striking him in the back.

Cops said the shooter immediately made a run for it, climbed into an SUV, and sped away on 35th Avenue. It is not believed he made off with any of the man’s belongings.

Officers from the 114th Precinct responded to the scene along with EMS units. The shooting victim was rushed to Elmhurst Hospital in critical condition. He later succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. Police have not yet released his identity, pending proper family notification.  

No arrests have been made, but the investigation remains ongoing.

According to NYPD data, murder in the confines of the 114th Precinct has doubled this year, from two at this point last year to four in 2026.

Anyone with information regarding Thursday’s homicide can call Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS (for Spanish, dial 888-57-PISTA). You can also submit tips online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, or on X (formerly Twitter) @NYPDTips. All calls and messages are kept confidential.