Juveniles arrested in connection with Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory parade. What do we know?

The events that unfolded during the Super Bowl victory parade of the Kansas City Chiefs were both horrific and sad. Another reminder of how quickly moments of happiness and comfort can turn to outright tragedy and panic. If there is a silver lining, it’s that law enforcement officials appear to have apprehended those who were responsible.

Arrests made in connection with Kansas City Chiefs victory parade shooting

As you would have seen in our previous report, one person was killed and 22 others were injured after multiple shots were fired during the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory parade on Wednesday last week. Speaking with the media, Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves confirmed that of those injured, the ages of individuals ranged between 8 and 47 years old, however, half of them were under the age of 16. The person who was killed was Lisa Lopez-Galvan, a 43-year-old mother of two who worked for a local radio station. Galvan’s death was met with national outrage. So much so in fact that Taylor Swift donated $100k to her family in an act of kindness.

In terms of what exactly happened, it is understood that shots were fired west of Union Station near the garage. Since Wednesday, three people, including two juveniles, have been detained along with several firearms that were recovered during the terrible turn of events. On Friday, law enforcement officials announced that two juveniles had been charged with crimes connected to the shooting. As per reports, they are currently being held at Jackson County’s Juvenile Detention Center “on gun-related and resisting arrest charges.” It’s important to note that the authorities also stated that it is “anticipated that additional charges are expected in the future as the investigation by the Kansas City Police Department continues.” Where the ‘why’ of it all is concerned, Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves explained that the incident “appeared to be a dispute between several people that ended in gunfire.”

What else do we know about the shooting?

While one may be inclined to think that the scenario could have been much worse, such an idea does nothing to diminish the loss and pain experienced last week. Where the 22 injured are concerned, it’s important to know that eight victims - according to Kansas City Fire Department chief Ross Grundyson - had “immediately” life-threatening injuries, seven had life-threatening injuries and six had minor injuries.” To that end, hospitals in the area were immediately thrust under the microscope in connection with their capacity to cope. There was Children’s Mercy Hospital which said 12 children were being treated at the hospital and nine of them had gunshot wounds. Fortunately, the hospital also stated that none were in critical condition and as such were all expected to recover. KSHB 41 News would later confirm that all patients had been discharged from the hospital as of Saturday morning.

OK, so what comes next in Kansas City

What we do know is that following the initial incident which occurred at the completion of the rally, the station was quickly and completely cleared by officers on the scene. While it was later determined that there was no imminent threat to the public, due diligence was understandably necessary. The location continues to be an active crime scene that is under investigation. “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,” police chiefs said. “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.”