Six killed in horrible Illinois shooting in Fourth of July parade

The American Independence Day celebration, usually full of parades, fireworks and festivals, was suddenly marred by another shooting spree yet again.  In this year’s Fourth of July celebration, a gunman shot six people dead and at least 24 were injured in a parade at Highland Park in Illinois Chicago. 

A 22-year-old gunman was behind the shooting. The police officials believed that at 10:15 am; he climbed a ladder in a nearby building. Then he started shooting at the parade-goers using a high-powered rifle straight from the roof. 

Sadly, this year’s US celebration of the Fourth of July represents the current problem plaguing the country’s try – mass shootings. In addition, the US has a record of 300 mass shootings this year. 

4TH OF JULY ATTACK
– Highland Park, Illinois
– During 4th of July parade
– Suspect opened fire on public
– May have fired from rooftop
– At least 30 victims, 6 dead
– Suspect not yet in custody
– Believed to be white, male, 18-20
– Motive unknown

— BNO News (@BNONews) July 4, 2022

Lake County Illinois Sheriff Deputy Chris Covelli said, “No indication he’s barricading anywhere or has any hostages. 

In addition, when the parade-goers heard the gunshots, hundreds quickly fled in fear and confusion. Many even left their personal belongings to escape the parade route. 

My heart breaks for the people of Highland Park, Illinois, who wanted nothing more than to celebrate their country this morning – but instead had their lives change forever. To the injured, and to the loved ones of the victims: Canadians are keeping you in our thoughts.

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) July 4, 2022

Shooting Aftermath

Videos of the mass shooting are circulating online. They showed how children’s bikes and lawn chairs are on the streets. There were also several empty baby carriages and unfinished food that people left behind in fear.

A witness told CNN, “All of a sudden, everyone behind us started running. I looked back, probably 20 feet away from me. Then, I saw a girl shot and killed. I saw her die. I’ve never seen anything like this.”

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker released a statement addressing the shooting incident. He said, “Today, I ask all Illinoisians to pray for families who have been devastated by the evil unleashed this morning in Highland Park. For those who have lost loved ones and those who have been injured. I also ask that we all pray for our first responders at all levels of government who are actively working to bring the suspect into custody and whose bravery undoubtedly saved innocent lives on the scene.”

The news left the Governor devastated as he called out for the public’s help in the immediate capture of the gunman.