At least two people were killed, and multiple others injured after a planned fight among young people escalated into a mass shooting at a Winston-Salem park on Monday morning. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation confirmed the deaths following the shootout at Leinbach Park, located near Sally Kirk Road. Suspects were still at large.
According to the Associated Press, authorities responded to reports of a fight around 9:52 AM (local time) and discovered that the situation had intensified into a shooting while officers were en route. The Winston-Salem Police Department clarified that the incident was not an active shooter call, but rather a premeditated confrontation between juveniles that resulted in multiple individuals firing at each other. He also said the shooting did not occur at the school.
The violence triggered immediate safety protocols at nearby educational institutions. Jefferson Middle School and Mount Tabor High School were placed on a secure hold as officers worked to secure the perimeter. Police later confirmed that the primary suspects and victims involved in the shooting have been identified and located. Some of those involved in the incident were juveniles.
The scene remained active throughout the day as drones were deployed to assist in the investigation. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation continues to process evidence at the park.
With inputs from Associated Press
