A suspect is in custody after a shooting at the State Fair of Texas in Dallas on Saturday night, which left three people injured and forced the evacuation of the fairgrounds.
What happened at the State Fair of Texas?
According to the Dallas Police Department, police responded to a report of a shooting in the fair’s food court at about 7:45 p.m. local time. Investigators determined one man shot at another man, resulting in three victims being shot and sustaining non-life-threatening injuries. The conditions of the victims were not immediately known.
A suspect, who was not immediately identified, ran from the scene but officers located and arrested him. A gun believed to have been used in the shooting also was found, police said.
The motive for the shooting is still under investigation. Police did not say if the suspect and the victims knew each other or what led to the altercation.
How did the State Fair of Texas react to the shooting?
The State Fair of Texas, which is held at Fair Park southeast of downtown Dallas, posted a social media notice confirming the evacuation and the police investigation into the shooting. The fair asked those outside the fairgrounds to avoid the area and thanked the law enforcement for their quick response.
The fair also said it was working with the police to ensure the safety of its guests and staff. It said it would provide updates as more information becomes available.
The State Fair of Texas is one of the largest and longest-running fairs in the country, attracting millions of visitors every year. It was scheduled to run through next weekend.
How did the public react to the shooting?
Videos posted on social media showed groups of people running along sidewalks and climbing barriers as they fled the area. Some witnesses said they heard multiple gunshots and saw people screaming and panicking.
Many people expressed their shock and sadness over the shooting, saying they hoped for a speedy recovery for the victims and their families. Some also criticized the lack of security measures at the fair, saying there should be metal detectors and bag checks at the entrances.
Others praised the police and the fair staff for their swift action and professionalism, saying they helped calm down the situation and prevent further violence.
