KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A shooting spree that left one person dead and 22 others injured in Kansas City, Missouri, was sparked by a quarrel among several individuals, according to the police. The incident occurred following a celebration of the city’s NFL Super Bowl victory and authorities have ruled out any apparent link to extremism.
During a press conference, Police Chief Stacey Graves stated that three individuals, including two minors, were detained as “subjects” in the investigation. However, one of the minors was later released after it was determined that they were not involved. The police are now working with the juvenile prosecutors to review evidence and establish applicable charges against the two remaining minors in custody.
Graves explained that several firearms had been recovered at the scene, but emphasized that the violence seemed to stem from a dispute between individuals rather than being a targeted attack. The police chief did not provide further details about the origin of the quarrel or whether there was any involvement of gang activity.
The shooting incident took place as the city held a parade and rally to celebrate the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl triumph. More than a million fans attended the event, which ended abruptly when gunshots were heard, causing panic among the crowd. Two attendees at the rally managed to detain one of the suspects before the police apprehended them.
The number of known gunshot victims has now been raised to 23, with ages ranging from 8 to 47. Tragically, Lisa Lopez-Galvan, a well-known local radio personality, was killed in the shooting.
The police are currently investigating whether there were any additional individuals involved in the incident, with the chief noting that anyone responsible would be brought to justice. Children’s Mercy Hospital reported that they treated nine children who had been shot, and all are expected to recover. Charges related to the shooting could be filed as early as Thursday afternoon, according to Jackson County prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.
Gun violence continues to be a prevalent issue in the United States, and the Kansas City Mayor, Quinton Lucas, acknowledged the grim reality. However, he expressed his commitment to continue hosting events and affirmed that plans for the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day parade will proceed.
As the investigation continues, the community is left to mourn the loss of life and grapple with the aftermath of yet another tragic incident of gun violence.