UNITED STATES — A recent graduation ceremony at Huguenot High School in Virginia turned deadly after a shooter opened fire near Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), killing two people and injuring five others. Fox News reports.
According to VCU police, the incident took place around 5:13 PM in Monroe Park, close to the Altria Theater. The victims were identified as an 18-year-old male and a 36-year-old male, but their names were not revealed.
Police believe that the suspect knew at least one of the victims. Five more people sustained various injuries, with two falling, one being hit by a car, and nine others treated at the scene for anxiety or minor injuries.
Richmond Public Schools announced the cancellation of Thomas Jefferson High School's planned graduation ceremony on Tuesday evening due to the incident.
Graduates and their families were exiting the theater when they heard about 20 gunshots fired in quick succession. Mass hysteria ensued and resulted "in a stampede," said school board member Jonathan Young. Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney described the incident as "traumatic" for everyone, particularly the youth involved.
The authorities arrested a 19-year-old person, whom they suspect to be the shooter. He is in custody and will face two counts of second-degree murder.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin and his team are closely monitoring the investigation, and state law enforcement is supporting the Richmond Police Department. Although there is no further threat to the community, a significant police presence remains at Monroe Park as the investigation continues.
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