NEW YORK – Chaos erupted in the heart of Manhattan last night as a fierce and unexpectedly brutal power struggle within the Alto Knights syndicate resulted in the death of prominent crime boss, Vincent Costello, and a significant upheaval in the organization’s leadership. The incident, which unfolded within Costello’s heavily guarded penthouse overlooking Central Park, has sent shockwaves through the city’s underworld and raised questions about the future of the Knights.

Initial reports indicate that the confrontation began around 9:30 PM. Witnesses – primarily members of the Knights’ security detail and a small contingent of rival gang members – described a swift and chaotic exchange of gunfire. Sources close to the investigation confirm that Costello, 58, was fatally wounded by a single gunshot to the chest. Two other individuals, identified as Marco “The Hammer” Ramirez and Silas “Silas the Silent” Blackwood, were also injured and are currently receiving treatment at Bellevue Hospital.

“It was… it was insane,” stated Benny “Fingers” Falcone, a long-time associate of Costello and a key witness to the events. “One minute we were celebrating a new shipment, the next… the penthouse was a warzone. Silas was the one who pulled the trigger, I swear it. He’s always been a quiet one, but tonight… tonight he showed a coldness I’d never seen before.”

The immediate aftermath has seen a scramble for control within the Alto Knights. Preliminary intelligence suggests that Blackwood, known for his meticulous planning and ruthless efficiency, is now the de facto leader. However, several factions within the organization – including the “Steel Serpents,” led by the volatile Isabella “Izzy” Cortez – are reportedly vying for influence and attempting to undermine Blackwood’s authority.

“This isn’t over,” stated a source within the Serpents, speaking under condition of anonymity. “Blackwood might have the numbers for now, but Cortez is hungry. She’s not going to let a quiet accountant like him run the show.”

Law enforcement officials, including the NYPD’s Violent Crimes Task Force, are currently conducting a thorough investigation, with multiple officers stationed around Costello’s penthouse. The investigation is focusing on potential motives, including disputes over territory, illicit financial dealings, and personal vendettas. The long-term consequences of this violent power grab remain to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Alto Knights are entering a period of unprecedented instability.