Refresh for updates… A Fourth of July parade in Highland Park, Ill., outside Chicago, has left six people dead and multiple injuries, according to officials. At least 24 people have been hospitalized with serious injuries.
Police are still searching for the gunman, according to city officials, and believe the shooting was random. Law enforcement officials are urging people downtown to shelter in place.
At a press conference just before 1 p.m. Chicago time, law enforcement officers described the suspected shooter as a white male, 18-20 years old, longer black hair, small build, wearing a white or blue t-shirt.
A rifle was retrieved at the scene, but the suspect should still be considered armed and dangerous.
Officials said there is no indication that the shooter, who apparently fired from a nearby roof, is barricaded in the immediate area.
A message on the city’s official Facebook page says, “SHELTER IN PLACE. Highland Park Police are responding to an incident in downtown Highland Park. All 4th of July events have been canceled. Please avoid downtown Highland Park. Take shelter if in downtown HP. “
Shots began firing within 10 minutes after the parade commenced at 10 a.m. CT today. As of this report, the shooter remains at large.
Nearby towns including Deerfield, Ill. have canceled their own official Fourth of July activities.
“I grew up in Highland Park and this parade is a highlight of the year for so many families,” tweeted actor Rachel Brosnahan. “I’m sick to my stomach every time news like this comes out, but I don’t wish the pit in your stomach as you call your family and friends to make sure everyone is okay on anyone. No words.”
My staff and I are closely monitoring the situation in Highland Park. State police are on the scene and we have made all state resources available to the community. We will continue working with local officials to help those affected.
— Governor JB Pritzker (@GovPritzker) July 4, 2022
While there is no known threat to Evanston residents, the shooter is still at large; and cancelations are taking place in an abundance of caution. Our thoughts and prayers go out to our neighbors to the the north.
— Evanston, IL Police (@EvanstonPD) July 4, 2022
I grew up in Highland Park and this parade is a highlight of the year for so many families. I’m sick to my stomach every time news like this comes out, but I don’t wish the pit in your stomach as you call your family and friends to make sure everyone is okay on anyone. No words. https://t.co/5dE7JB8Z17
— Rachel Brosnahan (@RachelBros) July 4, 2022
