2 dead, several injured, police search for suspects

Jala Washington and Chelsea Moreno

17 mins ago

ROUND ROCK, Texas (KXAN) — A shooting at a Juneteenth celebration in Texas left two people dead and several others injured.

Police in Round Rock, a city about 20 miles north of Austin, said the shooting began shortly before 11 p.m. in Old Settlers Park after a fight broke out between two groups attending the Juneteenth rally.

“The unfortunate thing is that we have had innocent victims due to the reckless actions of certain individuals,” Police Chief Allen Banks said during a press conference. “We are here to celebrate Juneteenth, and the unfortunate thing is that these people couldn't care less about someone's life and they take someone's life – and on a day when we are here to celebrate community.”

Banks said officers and members of the Round Rock Fire Department who responded to the scene immediately attempted to assist the shooting victims. Paramedics from Austin-Travis County EMS also attended the scene and said four adults and two children suffered potentially serious injuries.

Two people were pronounced dead at the scene. Their ages and identities have not yet been released.

The injured, who were not involved in the confrontation, were taken to nearby hospitals.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the victims,” ​​Banks said. “My condolences go out to the families of those who died.”

Watch RRPD Chief Allen Banks' briefing:

Further details were not immediately available. Banks said police believe the suspects fled the scene but that there is no danger to the public.

Anyone with video or information about the incident is asked to contact Round Rock Police at 512-218-5500.