A wave of mass shootings and violence across US swept the nation overnight, leaving 48 people dead and many injured in four separate incidents. The tragedies unfolded in Akron, Ohio; Penn Hills, Pennsylvania; Decatur, Georgia; and Louisville, Kentucky.

Akron

Just past midnight, a mass shooting erupted near Kelly Street and 8th Avenue in Akron, Ohio. The officers at the scene discovered dozens of bullet casings and a single firearm.

At least 25 people were shot by gunfire, with one victim succumbing to their injuries. While many sustained non-life-threatening wounds, others remain in serious condition.

shootings and violence
Image Source: AAMC

The Akron Police Department has yet to make any arrests. Mayor Shammas Malik and Police Chief Brian Harding released a joint statement over social media. They pledged to "bring those responsible to justice." They also encouraged anyone with information to come forward anonymously. "Our city is reeling after the devastation of senseless violence," they stated. "With more than two dozen victims, the pain and trauma reverberates across all of Akron today as we search for answers."

Pittsburgh suburb

A shooting occurred in the early morning hours at the Ballers Hook pub in Penn Hills, a Pittsburgh suburb. Two people died, and seven were injured. An fight within the pub escalated, resulting to multiple gunshots. First responders found the bodies of an adult male and female at the scene, and seven additional victims sought medical attention. One victim remains in critical condition, and the police have not disclosed whether any suspects are in custody.

Decatur, Georgia:

Eight people were injured in a mass shooting incident at club Pin Up’s on East Ponce de Leon Avenue in Decatur, Georgia. DeKalb County Police responded to the scene, where three individuals had gunshot wounds. These victims were taken to the hospital, and later, five more arrived at various medical facilities. Two of the injured were identified as suspects, and they are currently in custody while investigations continue.

Louisville, Kentucky:

In Kentucky, six minors were wounded in a shooting that erupted early Sunday morning in a business parking lot near Pleasure Ridge Park. Responding to reports of gunfire on the 7000 block of Raggard Road around 1:30 am, Louisville Metro Police officers found a party where the shooting had occurred. The minors were attending a party when the shooting broke out.  Thankfully, none of the minors sustained life-threatening injuries. They were taken to UofL Hospital for medical care. At this time, no suspects have been identified and the Non-Fatal Shooting Unit is actively investigating.

The string of shootings underscores the ongoing issue of gun violence in the United States. Officials in Akron, including Mayor Malik and Chief Harding, reaffirmed their commitment to public safety and expressed their determination to find solutions to end gun violence within their community.

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