CRITICAL: Shooting in downtown commercial district — multiple people injured
What happened
Today at about 12:40 p.m., multiple 911 calls reported gunfire near the intersection of 5th Avenue and Market Street. Uniformed patrols and tactical teams arrived within minutes. Several people were struck and transported to nearby hospitals; the scene is still sealed and investigators remain on site.
Where this is unfolding
Central downtown commercial district — businesses around 5th and Market remain cordoned off, with road closures and a large police perimeter in place. Emergency medical teams have set up triage just outside the secured area.
What authorities are saying
Police say the investigation is active and they have not confirmed a motive. Sgt. Maria Lopez urged people to avoid the area and follow official directions. A public information officer said hospitals received multiple patients but declined to release numbers while families are being notified.
On the ground
Reporters at the scene describe chaotic moments as people fled nearby shops and restaurants. Medical teams worked quickly to stabilize and move patients to ambulances. Officers established a command post and are canvassing for witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage.
Confirmed timeline
– 12:38 p.m. — First emergency calls reporting shots near 5th & Market. – 12:40 p.m. — Patrol units arrived and found multiple casualties. Shelter-in-place notices were issued to nearby businesses. – 12:50 p.m. — Tactical units and detectives sealed the area and set up command. – 1:05 p.m. — Multiple victims transported to area hospitals; no official confirmation of fatalities. – 1:30 p.m. — Perimeter still active; suspect search ongoing, no arrests reported. – 2:15 p.m. — Medical authorities report three patients in critical condition; identities withheld.
Practical advice for people nearby (especially helpful if you’re a local, parent, or caretaker)
– If you are in the area: follow police instructions, move away calmly, and do not approach the cordon. – If you have loved ones who may be in downtown: try calling them first; if unreachable, check nearby businesses they might have sheltered in and contact police with any precise location info. – Avoid sharing unverified photos or videos on social media — investigators asked the public not to circulate footage that could interfere with the inquiry or endanger others. – If you witnessed anything, do not post details publicly; call the official police tip line so investigators can use your information properly.
How to help
– If you have clear, relevant information (video timestamps, vehicle descriptions, witness details), contact the police tip line. Do not attempt to approach or detain anyone yourself. – Local hospitals have asked for privacy as they notify families; blood donation centers will post requests publicly if needed — check verified pages for official calls.
What to expect next
Police will hold scheduled briefings and release verified information when available. Expect continued road closures and a heightened law enforcement presence in the area for several hours while detectives process the scene.
Official contacts and resources
– Police tip line: [insert local tip-line number/website — follow official channels] – For immediate safety concerns, call 911.
A note to the community
If you’re feeling shaken: reach out to a friend, family member, or a local support line. Even if you were not physically near the scene, news like this can be deeply upsetting. Many community centers and hospitals offer trauma support — we will share verified resources as they become available.
Where this is unfolding
Central downtown commercial district — businesses around 5th and Market remain cordoned off, with road closures and a large police perimeter in place. Emergency medical teams have set up triage just outside the secured area.0
