Edmond, Oklahoma– A fight led to gunfire during a weekend party crowded with young people at an Oklahoma park, leaving 23 people injured by gunshots and shrapnel, including one person who was seriously injured, police said Tuesday.
So far, no arrests have been made in Sunday night’s shooting, but investigators have information that leads them to believe there is no ongoing danger to the public, said Sgt. James Hamm, Edmond police spokesman.
The shooting broke out at a picnic pavilion on the shores of Arcadia Lake, a popular boating, fishing and swimming area north of Oklahoma City.
Police said the party was promoted on social media, attracting a large crowd of mostly young people.
Hamm said the shooting began while officers were responding to a noise complaint about the party.
He added that multiple groups were present at the party, and that the shooting occurred after a quarrel broke out. One of the people who was shot remained in critical condition Tuesday, Hamm said.
He added that some of the victims suffered wound injuries and many of them were treated and then released. It is possible that more people were infected but did not seek treatment, Ham said.
He added that many of those who were shot were not involved in the fighting and were “simply attending the party.”
Police have not released any information about potential suspects, the number of people who may have fired shots, or the types of weapons used. Hamm said the department wants to maintain the integrity of the investigation.
Edmond Mayor Mark Nash said Monday that the shooting occurred at a public park where spaces can be reserved for large gatherings, but no reservations were made.
Jeremiah Braxton, who was at the party, said two of his friends were among those who were shot. He said everyone was eating, dancing and having a good time until a group of girls started arguing about their boyfriends.
“It just started a whole bunch of chaos,” he said Monday.
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Sewer reported from Toledo, Ohio. Associated Press reporter Rebecca Boone contributed from Boise, Idaho.