Multiple individuals sustained injuries during a shooting incident that occurred at the annual Dominican Festival in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Allentown Police officers were involved in the exchange of gunfire, however, no officers or fatalities were reported.
Allentown, Pennsylvania - On Sunday evening, a shooting erupted at the annual Dominican Festival in Allentown, Pennsylvania, resulting in multiple injuries. The incident took place at approximately 6:45 p.m. on the 100 block of North Seventh Street, according to Lehigh County District Attorney Gavin Holihan.
Allentown Shooting at Dominican Festival Leaves Multiple Wounded
As per reports, two separate groups engaged in an exchange of gunfire, prompting Allentown Police officers to respond and open fire themselves. Several individuals were wounded and subsequently transported to local hospitals.
"Right now it appears there are no fatalities and no Allentown police officers that were injured," Holihan stated.
Allentown Shooting at Dominican Festival Leaves Multiple Wounded
Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk expressed disappointment over the violence that marred the festival, emphasizing the community's intolerance for such behavior.
"I'm incredibly disappointed that people are making bad choices in Allentown," Tuerk wrote on social media. "Our neighbors have no patience for those that would make our streets unsafe. This behavior is unacceptable and we will continue to take the necessary steps to protect everyone from harm."
Allentown Shooting at Dominican Festival Leaves Multiple Wounded
State Rep. Josh Siegel, a Democrat representing the affected area, condemned the shooting and expressed optimism in the authorities' efforts to hold the responsible individuals accountable.
"I'm appalled by yet another incident of violence in my district staining our city streets with blood and depriving our residents and neighbors of peace of mind," Siegel said. "Violent perpetrators will never be victorious though and Allentown will not let them deprive our community of the safety it deserves."
Allentown Shooting at Dominican Festival Leaves Multiple Wounded
Despite the ongoing investigation, District Attorney Holihan stated that it was premature to establish a motive for the shooting.
The Dominican Festival, an annual celebration of the city's diverse community, was marred by the tragic incident. State Rep. Siegel emphasized the importance of not allowing such events to undermine the city's positive progress and momentum.
"Today was a day of celebration and recognition of our city's diversity and vibrant community," Siegel told LehighValleyNews.com. "We must never allow these instances to rob our city of its positive momentum and progress. Allentown is stronger than the few who lack respect for its laws."
The Allentown Police Department and the Lehigh County District Attorney's Office continue to investigate the shooting, with a focus on identifying and apprehending the individuals responsible for the violence.
