In the aftermath of the tragic shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl celebration rally, investigators are examining bullets and shell casings left at the scene. The incident resulted in one fatality and over 20 injuries, with at least half of the victims being children. The community is grappling with the abrupt end to what should have been a joyous occasion.
Two teenagers are in custody as the investigation unfolds into the shooting in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. The incident sent fans and star Chiefs athletes into a panic, with some athletes even comforting children amidst the chaos as police arrived at the scene.
Police Chief Stacey Graves stated that the shooting stemmed from a "dispute between several people," and initial findings suggest no connection to terrorism or home-grown violent extremism. As of Thursday night, no charges had been filed, and no suspects had been publicly identified. Several firearms were recovered, and police are collaborating with the county prosecutor's office.
A vigil was held on Thursday evening at a plaza near Children's Mercy hospital, where several injured children were receiving treatment. Church leaders led prayers as attendees held candles, illuminating the dark winter evening.
This tragic incident marks at least the 48th mass shooting in the United States in 2024, as reported by the Gun Violence Archive. It also follows a similar shooting last year at a major US sports title celebration, where two people were wounded at a parade for the NBA's Nuggets in Denver.
Among the victims of the Kansas City shooting was radio DJ Lisa Lopez-Galvan, remembered by her family as a devoted mother and community leader.
More than 20 others were injured in the shooting, with ages ranging from 8 to 47 years old, according to Graves.
One attendee, Jacob Gooch Sr., recounted how he, his wife, and their 13-year-old son were all wounded in the shooting. Gooch described how he realized he'd been shot when he saw smoke coming from his ankle and later learned that both his wife and son had also been hit.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials are focusing on the bullets and shell casings found at the scene to determine if there are any connections to the suspects in custody or other possible suspects.
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