(TheIndependentStar.com) – BREAKING OVERNIGHT: One individual was killed, and at least five others sustained injuries in a mass shooting that occurred shortly after midnight on Sunday at a community center in Indiana County, Pennsylvania, as reported by state police.
The incident unfolded at 12:35 a.m. during a private gathering attended by a group of individuals at the Chevy Chase Community Center in White Township. Trooper Cliff Greenfield provided details about the shooting, which occurred not far from Indiana Area Senior High School, just outside Indiana Borough. The community center is approximately 2 miles away from the campus of Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
Trooper Greenfield clarified that this was not an officially sanctioned event by Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), stating, “It was not an IUP-sanctioned party. From what I know at the moment, it was a private party. The venue was rented by a private individual.” Despite this, IUP spokeswoman Michelle Fryling indicated that there may have been university students in attendance, though the event was not affiliated with the institution.
No arrests have been made, and it remains uncertain whether the individuals responsible for the shooting were present at the party. Trooper Greenfield noted the possibility of multiple suspects, saying, “It’s possible from what I understand there may have been more than one suspect.”
Tragically, one person lost their life at the scene; however, authorities have not disclosed their identity.
The community center is situated in the residential Chevy Chase neighborhood. Trooper Greenfield pointed out that it is unusual for events at the center to extend so late into the night, adding, “The community center is sort of the staple of the community there. It’s a very busy place.”
Brandi Ports, the community center’s executive director, announced that the facility would be closed until further notice. The center, established in 1971 and underwent renovation in 2000, serves as a hub for various activities, including meal services and hosting a farmer’s market. It also offers rental space, such as Connor Hall, which can accommodate 150 people.
The weekend in question coincided with the university’s homecoming celebration, prompting state police to have additional troopers on patrol and enforcement duty. Trooper Greenfield mentioned that troopers on one of these details quickly responded, arriving within a minute of the reported shooting.
First responders, along with Indiana Borough police and state troopers, assisted those wounded at the scene. Some injured individuals were transported to Indiana Regional Medical Center and UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh.
“We are following up on a considerable amount of information right now,” Trooper Greenfield stated. “We have recovered evidence from the scene.” He also noted that two gunshot victims were believed to be in serious condition.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS ALERT FROM THE INDEPENDENT STAR.
