During Wednesday’s parade celebrating the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl win, 22 individuals, including eight children, were struck by gunfire, according to authorities.
Amidst the chaos, terrified fans sought cover as yet another public event was marred by gun violence, resulting in one fatality—a mother of two, identified as a DJ by her radio station.
At a news conference, Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves provided details on the shooting, revealing that three individuals had been apprehended. While she mentioned hearing reports of fans possibly assisting in the apprehension of a suspect, she couldn’t confirm these immediately.
Expressing her anger at the incident, Graves emphasized the expectation of a safe environment for those attending the celebration. The police did not disclose information regarding the suspects or a potential motive for the shootings. Firearms were recovered, but details regarding the type of weapons used were not provided.
Graves also mentioned that the ongoing investigation is actively looking into all aspects of the incident.
This incident adds to a troubling trend of gun violence overshadowing sports celebrations in the U.S. In the past year, shootings have disrupted festivities such as the NBA championship parade in Denver and the World Series championship parade for the Texas Rangers.
On social media, harrowing footage surfaced depicting the chaotic scene, with police rushing through crowds as panicked individuals sought refuge. Shocking videos captured the frantic efforts to aid victims, with scenes of bystanders performing CPR and others writhing in pain. In one video, civilians intervened, apprehending a suspect until police arrived on the scene.