On Wednesday afternoon, the iconic track Fight for your right by Beastie Boys pumped through the loudspeakers at Union Station, a major railway station. This was during a victory celebration for the Kansas City Chiefs, winners of the Super Bowl, the culmination of the American NFL competition and one of the biggest sporting events on a global scale. The jubilant festivities included a parade through the city streets at 11 a.m. local time (6 p.m. in our country) and a large gathering at the train station, where a stage was set up for the players to revel with their numerous fans.
The celebration took a tragic turn as it was winding down and many attendees were departing. Several gunshots rang out, causing havoc among the crowd. The local police confirmed at a press conference that one person was fatally shot and between 10 to 15 others were injured. An emotional Police Chief Stacey Graves expressed her anger, stating that the people attending the celebration deserved a safe environment. She commended her officers, numbering 850, for their immediate response and assistance to the injured, despite the terrible acts committed by some attendees with malicious intentions.
Mayor Quinton Lucas also addressed the media. He shared his first-hand experience of the horrifying event, having been present with his wife and mother at the station when the gunshots were heard. He echoed the sentiments of the shocked and saddened city, stating the tragedy was unexpected and would be remembered for a long time. He lamented the reality of individuals bringing weapons to public events and causing harm, making us all part of a club no one wishes to join – those who have experienced mass shootings.
Two suspects arrested
Emergency services reported that at least three of the injured individuals were in a life-threatening condition, while five were seriously injured. More people, injured in the ensuing chaos after the shooting, were transported to nearby hospitals. The police were able to arrest two suspects. Local media reported that fans present at the event assisted in subduing the armed suspects, however, the police could not confirm this. Police Chief Graves stated that no other suspects were being sought at the moment, but the motive behind the shooting remained unclear. She assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted.
Chaos
Witnesses described to ABC news how people began to flee in panic after the shooting. Video footage corroborates the accounts of chaos at the train station. Fans leaving the festivities were seen scrambling away as dozens of police officers rushed into the station. The police urged everyone to keep a safe distance from the station.
Patrick Mahones, the quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs and winner of Sunday’s Super Bowl, posted his prayers for Kansas City. Missouri Governor Mike Parson, who was at the event with his wife when the shooting occurred, was safely evacuated and thanked the police for their swift response. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, who was also present at the event, is reported to be safe as well.
