5 killed in shooting at July 4 Parade near Chicago

Chicago, July 4 (IANS) At least five people were killed and 16 others injured in shooting at a July 4 Independence Day parade near the US' Chicago city on Monday, reports said.

Five people have been shot dead, as per city officials, in the parade in Highland Park, north of Chicago, which was suddenly halted about 10 minutes after it began as gunshots were heard, the BBC reported.

"This is an active incident," city officials said in an update on Highland Park's website, advising those in the area to "shelter in place."

Governor of Chicago JB Pritzker share that he is working with all authorities regarding the shooting via a Twitter post.

My staff and I are closely monitoring the situation in Highland Park. State police are on the scene and we have made all state resources available to the community. We will continue working with local officials to help those affected.

— Governor JB Pritzker (@GovPritzker) July 4, 2022

Local Congressman Brad Schneider, who was present at the occasion expressed his anger in relation to the situation.

Hearing of loss of life and others injured. My condolences to the family and loved ones; my prayers for the injured and for my community; and my commitment to do everything I can to make our children, our towns, our nation safer. Enough is enough!

— Rep. Brad Schneider (@RepSchneider) July 4, 2022

One reporter saw five people with blood on them, according to a Chicago newspaper.

It quoted a a local resident as saying that he heard "20 to 25 shots, which were in rapid succession. So it couldn't have been just a handgun or a shotgun".

Highland Park's Mayor said the festival had been cancelled and asked people to avoid the downtown area.