WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (AP) — A planned fight among young people erupted into a tragic mass shooting at Leinbach Park on Monday morning, leading to the death of two individuals, according to law enforcement officials.
The violent incident unfolded at around 10 a.m. near Jefferson Middle School, prompting a significant police response as multiple people were reported shot. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation confirmed two fatalities among the victims.
Winston-Salem police Assistant Chief Jason Swaim revealed that the confrontation was initially meant to be a fistfight between two juveniles. However, during this altercation, a firearm was discharged, resulting in several individuals being shot. Authorities have identified numerous individuals who were present during the incident and are working to discern their roles—whether as suspects, victims, or witnesses.
In light of the shooting, Assistant Chief Swaim assured the community that nearby schools were secured, and parents could safely pick up their children from Jefferson Middle School.
The mass shooting occurred in a quintessential suburban area northwest of downtown Winston-Salem, a city with a population of approximately 250,000, historically known as the home of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company.
The investigation continues as local authorities aim to establish the precise sequence of events and ensure community safety.
The violent incident unfolded at around 10 a.m. near Jefferson Middle School, prompting a significant police response as multiple people were reported shot. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation confirmed two fatalities among the victims.
Winston-Salem police Assistant Chief Jason Swaim revealed that the confrontation was initially meant to be a fistfight between two juveniles. However, during this altercation, a firearm was discharged, resulting in several individuals being shot. Authorities have identified numerous individuals who were present during the incident and are working to discern their roles—whether as suspects, victims, or witnesses.
In light of the shooting, Assistant Chief Swaim assured the community that nearby schools were secured, and parents could safely pick up their children from Jefferson Middle School.
The mass shooting occurred in a quintessential suburban area northwest of downtown Winston-Salem, a city with a population of approximately 250,000, historically known as the home of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company.
The investigation continues as local authorities aim to establish the precise sequence of events and ensure community safety.
