Concord, North Carolina – Four people were shot and killed Friday evening during a Christmas tree lighting ceremony in North Carolina, according to officials.
Three people were in critical condition and one was in stable condition after the shooting in Concord, about 19 miles (30 kilometers) northeast of Charlotte, according to a statement from the city.
It was not immediately clear what led to the shooting. Police are reviewing video footage of the event and speaking with witnesses, according to the city. They have asked anyone with videos or photos to share them with police.
Videos and photos posted online show crowds of people fleeing, as well as a street lined with emergency vehicles.
The event was advertised as the city’s 28th annual tree lighting ceremony and was expected to feature Santa and Mrs. Claus, food trucks, the movie “The Grinch” and fireworks, according to the city’s website.
“We are praying for the safety of our brave law enforcement officers, first responders, and everyone at the scene,” U.S. Rep. Mark Harris of North Carolina said in a post on the social media platform X.