Indianapolis seven children aged between 12 and 17 were victims of a mass shooting in a crowded downtown area on a recent weekend night.
Late on Saturday evening, the peaceful atmosphere of downtown Indianapolis was shattered by the sound of gunfire. Officers who were patrolling the vicinity were drawn to the Circle Centre Mall, a bustling shopping plaza, after hearing the gunshots, told Fox 59.
Upon arriving at West Maryland Street, they encountered a large group of youngsters, six of whom had been shot. Deputy Chief of Police Tanya Terry reported the details in a news conference the following morning, according to CNN.
All injured individuals were immediately transported to local hospitals, with an additional victim arriving later.
The victims of this horrifying incident ranged from 12 to 17 years old. One of them was in critical condition upon arrival at the hospital but has since been stabilized. By Sunday morning, all victims were reported to be in a stable condition.
According to the police report, the victims comprised four boys and three girls.
The shooting occurred in the heart of Indianapolis’s downtown nightlife district, a hub of activity with numerous bustling bars and restaurants. The mall where the shooting took place is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The cause of the shooting remains unclear, and no suspects were in custody as of Sunday morning.
The incident has left the city of Indianapolis reeling, as such violent incidents involving children are rare. The local community and authorities are calling for stricter gun control measures and improved security in public places.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. The investigation is ongoing, and any leads could be crucial in identifying and apprehending the perpetrator.
In the aftermath of this shocking event, the city is coming together to support the victims and their families. Fundraisers and community support groups have been set up to aid in recovery.
This incident is a stark reminder of the ongoing issues of gun violence and safety in public places. It adds to the growing number of mass shootings in the United States, renewing the debate on gun control.