Multiple college students harm in mass capturing following chaotic brawl in procuring centre
Students were reportedly injured after gunfire broke out during a large brawl with police investigating and appealing for witnesses and CCTV as no arrests as yet made
At least three students were hurt in a mass shooting(Image: @InsidConflict/X)
At least three students were hurt in a mass shooting near a major university after a chaotic brawl. The Iowa City Police Department said officers were called to a large fight at the Pedestrian Mall in Iowa City at about 1,45am, where shots were fired early on Sunday (April 19)
Video posted to social media showed dozens of people packed around the fight as a group of men traded heavy punches. Other clips appeared to show people panicking and sprinting away as gunfire erupted.
“At this time, multiple victims have been taken to area hospitals to be treated for wounds suffered in the shooting,” the police statement read.
University of Iowa President Barb Wilson confirmed in a statement that the three wounded people are students, according to the New York Post. She wrote: “I am writing to you with a heavy heart.
“Early today, a shooting in downtown Iowa City injured three University of Iowa students. Iowa City Police are investigating, with the full support of University of Iowa Police.
“The university is in close communication with local law enforcement and will share more information as we are able. For now, I encourage you to rely on official university communications for updates.”
Police did not immediately say how serious the victims’ injuries were,. The busy strip of college bars is about a block from the closest University of Iowa building.
According to an emergency alert put out by the University of Iowa, the incident took place close to the campus on College Street and Clinton Street. They advised people to avoid the area.
The message read: “HAWK ALERT: Gunshots COLLEGE and CLINTON ST avoid the area. Situation Update: Police continue to investigate.
“Please continue to avoid the area and be aware of your surroundings. Situation Update: First responders on scene. Confirmed victims. Please continue to avoid the area.”
A new alert was then issued asking people to “remain vigilant” and to report any “suspicious activity”.
People on social media have also been speaking out on the incident with one mentioning seeing “blood stains” close to Donnelly’s Pub, which is reportedly popular with university students. However, it is not believed the pub was involved in the incident.
Officials reportedly said no arrests had been made following the early-morning disturbance. Moreover, Iowa City Police are reportedly urging anyone who witnessed what happened to contact them and share statements, along with any security or surveillance video.
Iowa City Area Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,000 (£740) reward for information that leads to an arrest.
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