Brandon Peniche and Pregnant Wife Survive Times Square Shooting Scare in New York

Mexican actor and television host Brandon Peniche, along with his pregnant wife Kristal Cid, experienced a night of terror in New York City after unexpectedly being caught in a shooting incident at Times Square on June 8. The couple, who were in the city for a photo session and to celebrate their growing family, documented the harrowing experience on social media, sharing their fear and relief with fans across Mexico and beyond.

What Was Supposed to Be a Happy Night

Brandon Peniche, known for his roles in Mexican telenovelas and as the son of legendary actor Arturo Peniche, arrived in New York with his wife Kristal Cid for a brief getaway. The trip was meant to be a celebration, as the couple recently announced they are expecting their third child—news that delighted their followers. The couple decided to commemorate the occasion by organizing a photoshoot in the vibrant heart of Manhattan, Times Square, a place famous for its lights, crowds, and energy.

But what started as a joyful evening quickly turned into a nightmare.

Shots Fired, Panic Ensues

As the couple posed for photos, the unthinkable happened. According to Kristal’s Instagram stories, they were inside a store when the sound of gunshots erupted nearby. “We were so happy, doing our photoshoot in Times Square. Suddenly, we heard shots. I can’t even explain the fear,” Kristal recounted, her voice trembling in the video.

The chaos was immediate. Hundreds of people began running in all directions, seeking shelter from the gunfire. Brandon and Kristal, like many others, rushed to find safety, ducking into a store’s emergency exit. “We ran. We’re in a store now, hiding by the emergency exit just in case. I’m shaking. I literally fell… I ran for my life,” Kristal shared, visibly shaken but unharmed.

A Series of Unfortunate Events

The shooting was not the only frightening moment the couple experienced that day. Earlier, Kristal revealed they had to call 911 after being threatened by a costumed street performer—a person dressed as Mickey Mouse—who became aggressive when she refused to take a photo with him. “It was too much for one day. First, two women started fighting, police running everywhere, then the Mickey Mouse character cursed at me and started following us. He threatened us and wouldn’t leave us alone. I had to call 911,” she explained.

While the situation with the street performer was resolved without further incident, the shooting later that night left the couple deeply unsettled. Brandon, who also posted about the ordeal, wrote, “We were in Times Square and suddenly everyone started running. I didn’t know what was happening, but it sounded like a gun. We locked ourselves in a store. It felt like a scene from an apocalypse movie.”

Relief and Reflection

After the chaos, both Brandon and Kristal reassured their followers that they were safe. “We’re okay, it was just a scare,” Kristal posted, thanking her fans for their messages of support. The couple’s ordeal highlights not only the unpredictable dangers that can arise in large cities, but also the resilience and quick thinking required to stay safe.

The incident quickly made headlines across Mexican media, with fans expressing relief that the family was unharmed. Many also expressed concern for Kristal’s pregnancy, but she confirmed that she and the baby were both fine, despite the fall she suffered while escaping.

A Stark Reminder About Safety

The Peniche family’s experience is a stark reminder of the challenges tourists can face in major cities, even in places as iconic as Times Square. While New York remains one of the world’s most popular destinations, incidents like this underscore the importance of vigilance and preparedness.

Brandon and Kristal’s willingness to share their story has resonated with many, serving as both a cautionary tale and a testament to the power of staying calm under pressure. As the couple returns to Mexico, they are undoubtedly grateful for their safety—and for the outpouring of support from their fans.

For now, the Peniche family is focusing on what matters most: each other, and the new life they are preparing to welcome.