26-year-old man fatally shot on street after hookah bar dispute in Astoria

ASTORIA (WABC) -- Police are investigating a late-night shooting in Queens that left a 26-year-old man dead early Monday.

The victim, who was found to be armed himself, was shot multiple times just before 4 a.m. on Steinway Street in Astoria.

Charles Williams was rushed to Astoria General Hospital but was pronounced dead en route.

Authorities say the incident began as a dispute inside the Crystal Hookah Lounge, located on Steinway between 25th and 28th avenues, and spilled outside.

Police say the suspect reached into his white BMW, grabbed a gun and opened fire on Williams before fleeing the scene. He is currently being sought.

When detectives moved Williams' body, they found a.38 caliber revolver in his possession.

The victim is from Brooklyn and allegedly has numerous prior arrests.

Police were canvassing the area, talking to witnesses and checking surveillance video.