Police had initially arrested Angel Alvarez on charges including assault and attempted murder in connection to the melee at a block party on Aug. 8.
But he was arraigned Monday in Manhattan criminal court only on charges of criminal possession of a weapon.
Police said Alvarez wrestled a gun away from the man he was brawling with, Luis Soto. Authorities said police officers in the area started firing after being shot at.
Soto was likely killed by police bullets.
Alvarez was wounded at least 20 times in the shootout. Three bystanders and two officers were hit but survived.
His lawyer Matthew Galluzzo told reporters that Alvarez did not shoot at any officers.
