Two people were killed and 14 others were injured, including children, in a shooting during a Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday night just before 11 p.m. in Round Rock, according to Round Rock police.
Austin-Travis County EMS confirmed medics took six people to the hospital after the shooting, while Williamson County EMS took an additional six people for treatment.
The suspect police believe is responsible for the shooting is still at large.
Police urge anyone with information about the shooting or video of the shooting to call the Round Rock Police Department at 512-218-5500. The Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) is also offering up to $5,000 to any information that leads to an arrest.
The shooting began when two groups began fighting with each other near the vendor area during the Round Rock Juneteenth Festival at Old Settler’s Park. During the fight, at least one person pulled out a gun and began shooting.
Those directly involved in the incident immediately fled, police said.
Round Rock Police Chief Allen Banks said the identity of people killed and injured will be revealed later. The victims were not part of the altercation, Banks said. The ages of the victims ranged from 10 to 62.
Round Rock police officers and Round Rock firefighters that were working at the event immediately responded to the shooting, applying tourniquets to the wounded and performing CPR.
“I’d like to thank the police officers and the fire department for their quick actions,” Banks said. “I have no doubt that their quick actions in rendering aid to the victims saved lives.”
“It is unfortunate that we were here celebrating a wonderful event and we have a tragedy that happens,” Banks continued. “My thoughts and my prayers go out to the victims. My condolences go out to the families of the deceased.”
Round Rock Mayor Craig Morgan released a statement following the shooting:
“I know Round Rock residents are devastated as they wake up to the terrible news of last night’s tragic events,” said Morgan. “To the families who are mourning the loss of loved ones, please know that our entire community mourns with you. To those who were injured, we are here to support you in your recovery. We are a community that values safety, celebration and unity, and we are committed to ensuring that our community heals through this event together. We will not let this incident define us, nor will we let fear take hold. Instead, we will support each other, offer help where it is needed and remain united in our resolve to make Round Rock a safe and welcoming place for all.”
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