Multiple people have been shot and many are feared dead after a gunman opened fire during a July 4th parade in Illinois on Monday.
Reports are emerging from Highland Park, Illinois that multiple people were gunned down.
So far, it’s not clear how many victims have been shot or killed.
Witnesses say crowds fled the sound of gunfire, and others saw at least five bloodied people lying on the ground and another under a blanket, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Videos are being uploaded to social media that show chaotic crowds fleeing the scene as gunshots can be heard.
Police have reportedly requested a canine unit to assist in finding the suspect.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office, where Highland Park is located, confirmed that a shooting had occurred and urged people to stay out of the area.
The sheriff’s office did not confirm the number of victims, however.
There are reportedly multiple fatalities following a shooting at an Independence Day parade in Highland Park, Illinois.
Warning: Gunshots heard in below video.pic.twitter.com/F0BrsEXIS8
— Alex Salvi (@alexsalvinews) July 4, 2022
The Highland Park Police Department has confirmed it is responding to an “active situation.”
Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering is urging residents to avoid the downtown area as police respond to the incident.
“Highland Park Police are responding to an incident in downtown Highland Park,” she announced on Twitter.
“Fourth Fest has been canceled. Please avoid downtown Highland Park.
“More information will be shared as it becomes available.”
Highland Park Police are responding to an incident in downtown Highland Park. Fourth Fest has been canceled. Please avoid downtown Highland Park. More information will be shared as it becomes available.
— Nancy Rotering 🟧 (@NancyRotering) July 4, 2022
Rep. Brad Schnider (D-IL) says he was in attendance were gathering at the parade at the time of the shooting.
He confirmed he is safe in a tweet, but did not offer any details regarding the situation.
However, despite not knowing the facts or the motivation behind the shooting, Schiner appeared to blame guns for the incident, declaring “enough is enough.”
Hearing of loss of life and others injured. My condolences to the family and loved ones; my prayers for the injured and for my community; and my commitment to do everything I can to make our children, our towns, our nation safer. Enough is enough!
— Brad Schneider (@Schneider4IL10) July 4, 2022
This is a breaking news report. Please check back for updates.
