(NewsNation) — A festive atmosphere turned tragic Wednesday near the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl rally when gunfire erupted, leaving one person dead and many others injured, police reported.
Authorities said the shooting unfolded near Union Station, a central hub for celebrations in Kansas City. Rep. Mark Alford, R-Mo., expressed shock and grief over the violence in an interview on “The Hill on NewsNation.”
“My daughter and son were at the parade. They left before the shooting occurred. It’s a sad day for Kansas City,” he said. “This was supposed to be a day to celebrate, and today, we are mourning.”
As authorities investigate the shooting, questions about gun violence and public safety have resurfaced.
“It is impossible to secure that area. You cannot run a million people through metal detectors to get in there to celebrate the Chiefs victory,” Alford said. “I do know that the Kansas City Missouri Police Department has been training for this.”
Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said the shooting appears to be criminal rather than an act of terrorism.
“It is a human violence problem. How do you solve that? That’s a great question,” Alford said.
During a news conference, Graves confirmed the death and said at least 22 others had gunshot injuries. Children’s Mercy Hospital is treating 12 patients from the rally, 11 of whom are confirmed to be children.
At least three armed people have been taken into custody.