A shooting in a Long Beach parking lot on Saturday night left seven victims injured, with authorities believing the incident was gang-related. The suspects remain at large.
In the vibrant city of Long Beach, California, a Saturday night gathering turned into a scene of chaos and terror when a gang-related shooting erupted in a crowded parking lot, leaving seven victims wounded. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and prompted a swift response from law enforcement authorities.
As the clock ticked past 11:15 p.m., two unidentified assailants approached a group of individuals near the intersection of South Street and Paramount Boulevard. Without hesitation, they unleashed a barrage of gunfire, sending terrified bystanders scrambling for cover. The suspects then fled the scene, disappearing into the night.
Responding officers arrived at the scene to find multiple victims lying injured in the parking lot. Paramedics rushed to their aid, transporting some to nearby hospitals while others made their way to medical facilities on their own. The extent of their injuries varied, with three individuals sustaining non-life-threatening wounds and four others in critical but stable condition.
All seven victims are adult males, according to police. One witness described the harrowing experience, recalling hearing an alarming number of gunshots ringing through the air. A worker at a nearby nightclub shared a chilling account of a stray bullet entering their establishment, narrowly missing an unsuspecting individual.
As detectives delve into the investigation, they have determined that the shooting was likely motivated by gang rivalry. Long Beach Police Chief Wally Hebeish expressed the department's unwavering commitment to apprehending the perpetrators and bringing them to justice.
"This police department is dedicated and focused on arresting any violent offender utilizing dangerous firearms to victimize our community," Hebeish emphasized.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward and assist in the investigation. Detective Juan Carlos Reyes and Detective Sean Magee can be reached at 562-570-7244.
The Long Beach Police Department has released a description of the suspects, who are believed to be two males. However, their identities and whereabouts remain unknown.
Meanwhile, the community is reeling from the aftermath of this senseless act of violence. Residents expressed their concerns and called for increased efforts to address gang activity and prevent future tragedies.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials are working tirelessly to gather evidence, identify the suspects, and bring closure to the victims and their families. The community of Long Beach stands united in condemning this horrific incident and in supporting those affected by the shooting.
