Bats Over Broadway - Violence in Astoria

What's the deal with the corner of Broadway and 34th Street? Gud Stuf reports that last week that three guys got taunted and then beat up by teens with bats. Posters at Astorians.com are complaining of lots of fights around that corner.

"I live right near there as well - on 34th Between B'way and 31st ave. I've had to call the cops on too many occasions at this point because of fights that happen in front of or near my building at the 3-4am mark."

Astoria's also been the recent scene of violence at local clubs, including the arrest of Club Soma's bouncer for a fatal fight with an 18-year-old. Late night fights outside nightclubs in Astoria happen often enough, but the death and the random violence farther away from the clubs is a sad, sad departure for a neighborhood better known for a safe and friendly vibe.

Help keep Astoria great. Get involved. Astorians.com has a new anti-crime thread going. And let your local representatives - Maloney, Gianaris, Vallone, and Onorato - know you're concerned.