Glendale, Arizona — A mass shooting at a restaurant on Sunday night has left three people dead and five others injured, presenting a grim reminder of the ongoing violence permeating communities across the nation. The tragedy unfolded around 7:45 p.m. when police received multiple calls reporting gunfire, leading them to an overwhelming scene in the city located approximately 10 miles northwest of Phoenix.
Upon arrival, officers encountered a chaotic environment, with witnesses describing scenes of panic and confusion. “We’ve got multiple calls of a shooting that happened at an establishment,” said police spokesperson Moroni Mendez, emphasizing the confusion that enveloped the area as first responders worked to assess the situation.
Authorities suspect that multiple shooters may have been involved in the incident, and while several individuals have been taken in for questioning, no arrests have been made as of yet. Mendez confirmed that neither officers nor security personnel discharged their firearms during the chaotic event, and they do not perceive any immediate threat to the public.
Data indicates that this shooting marks one of 97 mass shootings recorded in the United States this year, each resulting in four or more casualties excluding the perpetrators. The circumstances leading up to this particular shooting remain unclear, prompting police to seek assistance from anyone who may have information related to the incident.
The injuries sustained by the five individuals involved included gunshot wounds and shrapnel injuries. Investigators are still determining whether there was any prior connection among the victims, which complicates their ongoing investigation. Mendez reiterated the commitment to conducting a thorough and complete investigation. “We want to make sure we do a complete and thorough investigation and do right by the victims,” he stressed.
Witness accounts paint a disturbing picture of the unfolding violence. Bystander Lupe Rodriguez recalled hearing desperate cries amidst the chaos and observed one man on the ground who appeared to be gravely injured. “It was pretty bad,” Rodriguez recounted, emphasizing the terror that took place in what should have been a safe environment.
As police continue their work, Mendez indicated that the investigation will extend into the early morning hours. “It’s going to be several hours before this whole thing is cleared up,” he stated. The Glendale community is left grappling with the aftermath of this tragedy, as they seek answers and a path forward in the face of growing gun violence in the nation.