Gunfire erupted at the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl parade in Kansas City, Missouri, leaving 22 people injured, including eight children, and one person dead. The shooting occurred at the end of the parade, as fans were celebrating the team’s victory. Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves confirmed that three individuals have been taken into custody, and firearms have been recovered. The motive behind the shooting remains unknown at this time.
The incident took place outside Union Station, despite the presence of over 800 police officers in and around the area. Mayor Quinton Lucas, who was attending the parade with his wife and mother, had to seek cover when the gunfire broke out. Expressing anger and disappointment, Chief Graves emphasized that those attending such celebrations should expect a safe environment.
Videos shared on social media captured the chaotic scene, with terrified fans running for cover and police officers rushing through the crowd. One video showed individuals performing CPR on a shooting victim, while another depicted two people apprehending a suspect until police arrived.
Tragically, DJ Lisa Lopez, host of “Taste of Tejano” on radio station KKFI, was identified as one of the victims who lost her life in the shooting. The senseless act of violence has deeply impacted the Kansas City community.
Several hospitals in the area received gunshot victims and other injured individuals. University Health reported treating eight gunshot victims, with two in critical condition. Children’s Mercy Kansas City treated 12 patients, including 11 children with gunshot wounds. St. Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City received one critically injured gunshot patient and three others with non-life-threatening injuries.
The Kansas City Chiefs organization expressed their sadness over the incident, stating that the violence had marred what should have been a day of celebration. Missouri Governor Mike Parson and his wife, who were present at the parade, were unharmed.
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the shooting, and the White House is in contact with state and local leaders. Federal law enforcement is supporting local authorities in their investigation.
This tragic event highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in Kansas City, a city that has struggled with high crime rates. Mayor Lucas, along with mayors across the country, has called for new laws to address this pressing issue, including universal background checks.
