Authorities have arrested a 17-year-old on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon following a mass shooting at a Juneteenth celebration in Round Rock, Texas. The incident, which occurred over the weekend, resulted in two fatalities and 14 injuries, according to police reports.
The teenager was apprehended in Pflugerville, near Round Rock, with no prior criminal record. He was identified as one of the suspects involved in the shooting, wearing a white hoodie at the time of the incident. Police Chief Allen Banks confirmed that the arrested individual was not the sole shooter, hinting at the possibility of additional suspects facing charges.
Chief Banks emphasized ongoing efforts to locate other individuals involved in the shooting, urging witnesses to come forward with any relevant information. The investigation is still active, with authorities striving to ensure all responsible parties are brought to justice.
The shooting transpired during an altercation between two groups at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock. Multiple individuals brandished firearms and exchanged gunfire, resulting in casualties among bystanders. Despite prompt intervention by law enforcement and emergency responders, two victims succumbed to their injuries at the scene.
The tragic incident has left the community in mourning, with Chief Banks expressing profound sorrow for the affected families. He condemned the reckless disregard for human life displayed by the perpetrators, underscoring the devastating impact on innocent individuals.
In response to the shooting, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspects involved. The Juneteenth Festival at Old Settlers Park, where the shooting occurred, featured musical performances and drew a large crowd of attendees.
Following the incident, the park was temporarily closed on Father's Day as authorities continued their investigation. The shooting in Round Rock was part of a disturbing trend, with at least 14 mass shootings reported over the weekend, resulting in multiple fatalities and numerous injuries across different locations.
