Title: 2 Killed, 28 Wounded in Baltimore Mass Shooting
Date: July 2, 2023
Author: Emily Mae Czachor
Source: CBS News
At least two people were killed and 28 others were wounded in a mass shooting that took place in southeast Baltimore early Sunday morning. The incident occurred at a block party in the city’s Brooklyn neighborhood, according to CBS Baltimore.
Baltimore police officers responded to multiple calls reporting the shooting at around 12:35 a.m. Aaliyah Gonzales, an 18-year-old woman, was pronounced dead at the scene, while 20-year-old Kylis Fagbemi was pronounced dead later at a local hospital. Nine of the injured victims were transported to hospitals from the scene, while the remaining 20 victims walked into various hospitals in the area, as confirmed by acting Baltimore City Police Commissioner Richard Worley during a press conference.
Worley stated, “When officers arrived, they found multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. We located one female adult deceased on the scene, 9 additional victims were transported from the location to area hospitals.”
A total of 30 people sustained gunshot wounds at the block party, with the victims’ ages ranging from 13 to 32 years old. Fourteen of the victims were under the age of 18, according to the police.
Authorities have confirmed the presence of at least two shooters and are currently investigating if there were any additional individuals involved. As of Sunday afternoon, the police were unsure if the shooting was targeted.
Surveillance video footage captured the chaotic scene as dozens of people ran for safety during the mass shooting.
The Baltimore Police Department has urged anyone with information about the incident to contact the homicide unit at 410-396-2100. Community members can also report tips anonymously to Metro Crime Stoppers, either by phone or online.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott expressed his determination to bring the perpetrators to justice, stating, “We will not stop until we find those cowards who decided to just shoot dozens of people, causing two people to lose their lives. And we’re going to be here until we find them, until we hold them accountable for the actions they took because we cannot rest until they do so. Again, our thoughts and prayers are with the entire community and city.”
In a joint statement issued by the mayor’s office and the police department, Scott called for increased gun control in Baltimore, emphasizing the need to address the presence of illegal guns on the streets that end up in the hands of individuals who carry out violent acts.
“This act of violence has shaken our city to the very core, and we are all grappling with the shock, pain, and trauma that accompanies such a heinous act of destruction,” the mayor’s statement read.
The investigation into the mass shooting is ongoing, and Mayor Scott assured the public that the responsible individuals will be held accountable. He emphasized the need for accountability at every level of the illegal gun trade, from those using the weapons to those trafficking and manufacturing them.
The Baltimore community is left devastated by this tragic incident, and efforts are underway to support the victims and their families during this difficult time.
What steps is Mayor Brandon Scott taking to address the issue of gun violence in Baltimore following the incident?
The incident. No arrests have been made at this time.
Witnesses at the scene described a chaotic and terrifying scene as shots rang out. Many attendees fled in panic, seeking cover wherever they could. Several nearby homes and vehicles were also struck by gunfire.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the community has come together to offer support and comfort to the victims and their families. Local organizations and community leaders have organized vigils and are providing resources for those affected by the tragedy.
This mass shooting adds to the already grim statistics of gun violence in Baltimore, which has been grappling with a surge in violent crime in recent years. The city has one of the highest homicide rates in the country and instances of mass shootings have become all too common.
Mayor Brandon Scott spoke out about the incident, expressing his frustration and determination to address the issue of gun violence in the city. He called for stronger gun laws and increased resources for crime prevention and intervention initiatives.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with law enforcement working diligently to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible. Anyone with information is urged to come forward and assist in the investigation.
Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of the two victims and stands in solidarity with those who were injured. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the root causes of gun violence and work towards a safer and more peaceful future.
