Synopsis
A shooting at the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival in Louisiana resulted in two injuries, prompting an early closure of the event. Law enforcement is investigating and assures public safety measures for the resumed festivities.Key Takeaways
- Two individuals were injured in a shooting.
- The festival had to close early due to the incident.
- One victim is hospitalized with an abdominal injury.
- Law enforcement is investigating the shooting.
- The festival will resume with adjusted hours for safety.
Louisiana, April 13 (NationPress) A shooting incident at the annual Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival in Louisiana, US, resulted in two individuals being injured.
The event, which took place on Saturday evening, had to be closed prematurely.
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office verified that one victim sustained an abdominal injury and is currently hospitalized, while a second individual received treatment for a graze wound.
This incident occurred early on Saturday night, interrupting what had been a lively celebration.
The Sheriff's Office announced on X that the festival was to be shut down early due to the violence.
"Sheriff Sticker, TPSO personnel, and over a dozen assisting agencies will remain stationed and patrolling the grounds and surrounding areas of downtown for the entire final day," the statement indicated.
"While we offer our prayers for the recovery of those injured, we commit to holding accountable those responsible for tarnishing what has been, up to this point, an exceptional weekend," it further stated.
The Sheriff's Office also encouraged visitors to carry on with their plans to attend the festival on Sunday and to be considerate of families and children in attendance.
"We hope those intending to come to this event and community on Sunday maintain those plans and that everyone exercises patience and respect for all attendees, especially the hundreds of families with young children simply trying to enjoy the beautiful weather at a cherished tradition," the post concluded.
Festival organizers confirmed that the event would resume on Sunday with adjusted hours to guarantee public safety.
"Due to an unfortunate incident that took place on our grounds and for the safety of our guests, the festival concluded early tonight," the event management statement noted.
"We appreciate everyone’s understanding and cooperation. We are grateful for the Ponchatoula Police Department, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office, and the more than 10 other agencies that secured our grounds swiftly and efficiently," it added.
Organizers stated that Sunday's schedule would commence with a church service at 9 a.m., followed by the opening of rides at 10 a.m.
However, the festival will finish earlier than initially planned, closing at 5 p.m. instead of 7 p.m.
"Our non-profits will be serving delicious food, and the weather will be perfect! We encourage everyone to enjoy the remainder of your weekend in Memorial Park," the statement concluded.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and law enforcement has pledged to take strict action against those responsible.
