A graduation ceremony in Virginia turned tragic as two people were killed and 5 others injured in a taking pictures incident. The attack occurred outdoors the Altria Theater in Richmond, causing panic among the many attendees, many of whom had been wearing graduation gowns. The police chief described the scene as chaotic, with people scattering in all instructions.
A 19-year-old suspect attempted to escape on foot however was apprehended by the police. He is expected to face a minimum of two counts of second-degree murder. The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, is thought to have known at least one of the victims. During the arrest, the police did not use their firearms, and a number of other weapons had been recovered at the scene. The victims’ identities haven’t been revealed; however, the police confirmed that the two fatalities had been an 18-year-old graduate and his 36-year-old father.
A 31-year-old who sustained gunshot wounds is in important condition, while 4 other males, aged 14, 32, 55, and 58, are secure after being injured. The shooter started firing in Monroe Park, reverse the theatre, shortly after the Huguenot High School ceremony concluded at around 5:15pm. As Mere and graduates were leaving the theatre near the Virginia Commonwealth University campus, at least eight shots have been heard, prompting people to flee the area, some carrying young children and infants. Graduates embraced and wept upon reuniting after the horrifying incident..