ROUND ROCK, Texas —
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."
The FBI confirmed it is assisting the Round Rock Police Department with the investigation.
"Our hearts go out to those affected by this senseless act of violence and loss of life last night," the FBI said in a statement on Sunday. "The FBI has been working with and providing resources, support and personnel to the Round Rock Police Department as they lead this investigation. We will continue to help however we can as the law enforcement community works together to bring these subjects to justice."
The park is located in the district of State Rep. Caroline Harris, who also released a statement on Sunday.
"I am deeply saddened by last night's tragic incident that claimed two innocent lives and injured several others," Rep. Harris said. "This is not the Round Rock we know and cherish, and it grieves me to see such senseless violence in our community. My prayers go out to all the victims and their families, and I stand with them in their time of mourning. To the Round Rock first responders, thank you for bravely and swiftly providing security and medical aid."
State Rep. James Talarico released the following statement:
"I am devastated by last night’s shooting in Round Rock. Juneteenth should be a time to gather together safely — without the threat of gun violence.
"My condolences go out to the families of those affected by this tragedy. I wish a speedy recovery to those who are injured.
"It is past time that the Texas Legislature moves beyond ‘thoughts and prayers’ rhetoric and gets serious about gun safety.
"I believe in the power of prayer. But there is something profoundly cynical about asking God to solve a problem that we are not willing to solve ourselves."
Mental health resources
For those in need of mental health assistance following this incident, the Round Rock Fire Department's Crisis Response Unit can be reached during the special extended office hours of 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Friday, June 21, by calling 512-218-5501.
Outside of those hours, the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Disaster Distress Helpline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 1-800-985-5990.
Other general mental health support services include the Crisis Text Hotline (text HOME to 741741), the National Crisis and Suicide Prevention Lifeline (dial 988) and the Bluebonnet Trails Crisis Hotline (call 1-800-841-1255).