Tragedy struck downtown Indianapolis late Saturday night as a mass shooting unfolded, resulting in seven minors being rushed to the hospital with injuries.
The victims, all children and teenagers aged between 12 and 17 years old, suffered gunshot wounds in the incident that occurred shortly after 11 p.m. local time near the city's Circle Centre Mall. Images from the scene were shared by CBS affiliate WTTV.
Police reported that they were alerted by patrol officers in the downtown area who heard multiple gunshots nearby. Upon arrival, they discovered six minors, part of a larger group of children, who had sustained injuries consistent with gunshot wounds. Emergency medical services promptly transported all six victims to a hospital for treatment. Initially, one victim was in critical condition during transport, but has since stabilized. The remaining five victims were in stable condition when they were taken to the hospital.
Additionally, a seventh victim, believed to be part of the same downtown incident, arrived at a different hospital independently. This individual's condition was also listed as stable, according to the Indianapolis police.
This shooting adds to the ongoing challenge of increased gun violence in Indianapolis. A recent study by a local publication revealed that homicides in the city, primarily involving firearms, had surged by 85% over the past fifteen years.
Addressing the issue during a briefing, Deputy Police Chief Terry emphasized the concerning trend of young individuals resorting to firearms to settle disputes. Terry highlighted the department's existing efforts to intervene with juvenile groups before conflicts escalate, aiming to prevent such crimes from occurring.
The deputy chief also urged parents to play a role in curbing such violence.
Community Urged to Get Involved After Late-Night Shooting
A recent incident involving a 12-year-old being shot late at night has prompted community leaders to call for more parental involvement.
"We would ask for our parents to get involved in what their children are out doing, especially at these hours of the evening," said Terry. "This was 11:30 at night, the evening right before Sunday, Easter. So if you don't know where your 12-year-old is, I think that should be a priority for you."
Authorities are currently conducting an investigation into the shooting. Police have urged anyone with information to contact Detective Albert Teaters at the department's homicide office.
