Gunman Targets Patriotic Parade Near Chicago, Killing Several
As Americans were gathering to celebrate their independence from the tyrannical British monarchy of the 18th century on the outskirts of Chicago, Illinois, chaos erupted.
A gunman, still on the loose as of this writing, opened fire, killing a number of people and injuring scores more.
At least six people were killed and 31 others were hospitalized following a shooting at a 4th of July parade in Highland Park, Illinois, on Monday.
Advertisement - story continues belowThe city of Highland Park initially stated that 16 people were injured and five were killed, but officials amended the total to six dead and 31 injured during an afternoon press conference. Authorities said a “high-powered” rifle had been located on a rooftop, but did not offer more details.
The hunt for the killer was intense and ongoing late into the afternoon on the 4th of July.
“Law enforcement agencies are searching for the suspect; evidence of a firearm has been recovered. The suspect is described as a White male, 18-20 years old, with longish black hair and a slight build. Numerous law enforcement officers are responding and have secured a perimeter around downtown Highland Park,” the city wrote in a statement.
Chris Covelli, spokesman for the Lake County Crimes Task Force said at least 100 law enforcement officers are on scene “aggressively” looking for the suspect. He appealed to nearby businesses and parade attendees to review their photos and videos to give to police for the investigation.
The incident forced the cancellation of the rest of Highland Park’s Independence Day celebrations.
No motive or manifesto has yet been recovered that could provide any insight into the horrid incident.