Kansas City USA is in shock after one woman was killed and several others injured as a gunman opened fire on fans celebrating the victory of Kansas City Chiefs in last Sunday’s Super Bowl 25-22 win over San Francisco.
Rapid shots were fired at the end of the celebrations as fans followed the players into the Union Station, to take pictures and depart to their homes. Lisa Lopez-Galvan, a local DJ with a radio station was hit and 21 others including children suffered various degrees of injuries.
Police said three people have been detained as part of their investigation.
Speaking at a news conference, Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said there is video circulating social media showing “some fans tackling someone”.
Two childhood friends of Ms Lopez-Galvan’s told reporters that she attended the parade with her husband and her adult son, a passionate Kansas City sports fan who also was shot.
Others who weren’t shot are thought to have suffered other injuries. Speaking at the conference, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said: “Today was tragic for everyone who was part of it.
“I had the chance to talk to my wife just a moment ago, who said ‘we became part of a statistic of too many Americans – those who have experienced or been part of or connected to a mass shooting.’ That is something that I hope we all recognise is highly problematic for all of us.”
Linebacker Drue Tranquill also posted: “Please join me in prayer for all the victims in this heinous act. Pray that doctors & first responders would have steady hands & that all would experience full healing.”
In an official statement, the Chiefs said: “We are truly saddened by the senseless act of violence that occurred outside of Union Station at the conclusion of today’s parade and rally.
“Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and all of Kansas City. We are in close communication with the Mayor’s office as well as the Kansas City Police Department.
“At this time, we have confirmed that all of our players, coaches, staff and their families are safe and accounted for.
“We thank the local law enforcement officers and first responders who were on-scene to assist.”
Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce wrote on X, formerly Twitter: “I am heartbroken over the tragedy that took place today.
“My heart is with all who came out to celebrate with us and have been affected. KC, you mean the world to me.”
US President Joe Biden said the shooting “cuts deep in the American soul” and called on people to press Congress to ban assault weapons, to limit high-capacity gun magazines and for other gun measures that have been rejected by Republicans.
“Today’s events should move us, shock us, shame us into acting. What are we waiting for?” he said.
