On Sunday, Nov. 21, an SUV carrying multiple people caused the Waukesha Holiday Parade to be a bloodbath. The result is a large number of people dead and injured.
More than 20 individuals, including children, were brought to six hospitals throughout the region. The exact number of fatalities owing to family notifications was not given.
“At this time, we will not be releasing information on deaths since we are focused on informing family members,” the Waukesha police chief added.
According to the Milwaukee Archdiocese, one of their Catholic priests, as well as numerous parishioners and Waukesha Catholic school children, were among the injured.
The Waukesha police chief stated that a suspect was in custody.
According to an American official, the White House is keeping tabs on the situation. According to an FBI representative, the Milwaukee field office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is also aware of the situation.
According to the Acting Division Chief of the Public Affairs Division of the ATF, Federal Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) have responded to assist Waukesha Police.
The School District of Waukesha has announced that it will be closed for all students in grades 4K-12 on Monday, Nov. 22, as a result of the event. Students who require assistance may visit with counselors at any campus.
At approximately 7:05 p.m., the Waukesha Police Department issued a shelter in place warning that lasted until about 8:08 p.m.
The police chief claimed that there was no danger to the public, and that the shelter in place warning was intended to keep people away from the scene.
The driver of the red SUV was seen in a cell phone video running through the crowd, colliding with pedestrians, and driving erratically throughout the route.
The crowd was ordered to evacuate the area. A CBS 58 viewer uploaded photographs of what appears to be a red SUV parked in front of a house on Maple Avenue.
“This is an unthinkable tragedy that affects us all as we strive to overcome a difficult two years and resume our cherished holiday activities,” Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow said in a statement.
“As I was returning home with my wife after taking part in the celebration, I heard police sirens. I was informed that a vehicle had driven through the parade route and injured a number of people. Pray for our community as we await news from the Waukesha Christmas Parade.”
Farrow said officials are still seeking answers to the situation and request everyone’s thoughts and prayers for the community.
“Tonight, I’m praying for Waukesha and all of the children, families, and community members impacted by this senseless act,” said Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers on Twitter. “I’m grateful for the first responders and citizens who responded swiftly to assist, as well as those who are currently on the scene and communicating with local partners.”
Our hearts go out to the victims and their families following the tragic incident at the parade in Waukesha.
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