Five teenagers were injured in a shooting incident during a senior skip day gathering near a recreational center in Greenbelt, Maryland, authorities reported.

Details of the Incident

• Location: The shooting occurred near the Schrom Hills Recreation Center in Greenbelt, Maryland.
• Victims: Five boys were shot, with one in critical condition and the rest in stable condition.
• Police Response: Greenbelt Police Department Chief Richard Bowers condemned the act as senseless and called for action to prevent such tragedies. Officers arrived at the park around 2:30 p.m. to find a large gathering of high school students, estimated to be between 500 to 600 individuals.
• Investigation: The shooting is under active investigation, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.

Unsanctioned Gathering

• Nature of the Event: The senior skip day meet-up was an unauthorized gathering organized via social media.
• Schools Involved: The number of schools participating in the event remains unknown.
• Lockdown Measures: Nearby schools and recreational facilities were placed on lockdown following the incident, according to Greenbelt Mayor Emmett Jordan.

Police Efforts and Media Coverage

• Search for Suspect: Police initiated a search for the shooter, but the chaos ensuing from the gunfire led many attendees to flee, potentially aiding the suspect’s escape.
• Media Coverage: WJLA captured the scene, showing a significant police presence and the detention of individuals. However, it remains uncertain whether those detained were connected to the shooting.

Conclusion

The shooting incident at the senior skip day gathering in Greenbelt has sparked widespread concern and underscores the urgent need for addressing gun violence. As authorities continue their investigation, the community awaits answers and hopes for swift justice for the victims.

Source