Kansas City Police reported that gunshots were fired after the Super Bowl parade celebrating the Kansas City Chiefs near Union Station on Wednesday. The incident resulted in one fatality and left 10-15 people injured. The shooting occurred west of Union Station near a garage, with two armed individuals taken into custody by the police.
The gunshots were heard around the end of Wednesday’s rally, one organized to celebrate the Chiefs’ 25-22 overtime victory over the San Francisco 49ers in Sunday’s Super Bowl LVIII. A terrible twist on what was to be a wonderful day, the Chiefs have released a statement in the wake of the news. Thy stated:
“We are truly saddened by the senseless act of violence that occurred outside of Union Station at the conclusion of today’s parade and rally. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and all of Kansas City.”
Chiefs players, coaches, and staff were confirmed to be safe, as announced by the team. Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves provided details on the toll of the shooting at a news conference, stating that two suspects had been apprehended. Shocking videos posted on social media captured chaotic scenes, including first responders attending to victims and fans seeking safety.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and head athletic trainer Rick Burkholder posted messages on social media expressing their thoughts and prayers for Kansas City in the aftermath of the tragic event. Mahomes wrote, “Praying for Kansas City…”
The shooting has cast a somber shadow over what was intended to be a joyous celebration of the Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory.
Chiefs’ Super Bowl Parade Celebration Turned Chaotic
Witnesses described the sudden chaos, with SWAT teams entering the area and attendees running for cover. Videos on social media captured the sounds of gunshots, some during live news broadcasts. Mayor Quinton Lucas expressed anger at the unexpected violence.
Emergency services, including hospitals, were swiftly mobilized to address the casualties. Children’s Mercy Kansas City and St. Luke’s Hospital reported receiving patients from the rally, while the University of Kansas Health System also treated a shooting victim. The victims were distributed across multiple hospitals to avoid overwhelming emergency rooms.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson expressed condolences to the victims, and state law enforcement personnel assisted local authorities in response efforts.
As per CNN, The incident marks at least the 48th mass shooting in the United States this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances of the shooting, with federal law enforcement offering assistance.
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