Close Up Shot Focused on Yellow Tape Showing Text Police Line Do Not Cross. Restricted Area of a Crime Scene. Bokeh Background with Flickering Siren Lights. Forensics Team Working on a Case
Authorities in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, are investigating a devastating shooting incident that occurred near Park Avenue, leaving multiple individuals injured and two people dead.
The violent episode unfolded late Monday evening, shocking residents of the quiet coastal community and prompting a massive emergency response from local and state agencies.
According to initial reports from the Portsmouth Police Department, officers were dispatched to the scene after receiving multiple 911 calls about an active shooter situation in the area.
Responding units arrived swiftly to find a chaotic and tragic scene, with several individuals suffering from gunshot wounds both inside and outside the affected building.
Emergency medical personnel from Portsmouth Fire and Rescue, assisted by mutual aid from surrounding towns, immediately began triaging victims. Several ambulances and medical teams worked rapidly to assess and stabilize the wounded.
Three critically injured patients were transported to nearby Rhode Island hospitals, where they remain under emergency care. Tragically, two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, their bodies discovered amid the aftermath of the shooting.
Among the deceased, authorities identified a 61-year-old male located at the rear of the building, though his name has not yet been released pending family notification. Police conducted a second thorough search of the premises to ensure there were no additional victims or threats and later confirmed that no further casualties were found.
The area surrounding Park Avenue was quickly cordoned off as detectives and forensic teams began collecting evidence. Officers recovered shell casings and other ballistic materials, which are being analyzed to determine the type of firearm used and the possible trajectory of the shots fired.
Investigators are also reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and residences to piece together a clearer picture of what led to the tragic events. As of now, law enforcement officials have not publicly confirmed whether a suspect has been apprehended or if the shooter remains at large.
Residents were urged to stay indoors for several hours as police secured the perimeter and conducted interviews with witnesses who reported hearing a series of gunshots followed by screams.
Portsmouth Police Chief and town officials expressed their condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing that the department is working around the clock to bring clarity and justice to those affected.
“This is a tragedy that has shaken our entire community,” one official stated. “We are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of our residents and to uncover the circumstances that led to this senseless act of violence.”
The Rhode Island State Police and the Attorney General’s Office have joined the investigation, offering additional resources and support. Meanwhile, the local community is rallying together, offering prayers and support to the victims’ families and those hospitalized in critical condition.
As investigators continue their work, Portsmouth residents are left grappling with grief and disbelief, struggling to comprehend how such a violent incident could occur in their peaceful town.
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