A 12-year-old girl has been killed and four adults wounded in a shooting in Baltimore, Maryland, following an argument over a parking space during a youth American football match.
The incident took place on 4 October at around 6pm local time (11pm BST). Three people suffered gunshot wounds, including a 25-year-old woman and two men aged 23 and 28. A fourth victim, a woman aged 35, attended hospital seeking treatment for a graze wound on her back, Baltimore Police Department said.
Police Commissioner describes dispute
Police Commissioner Richard Worley said the dispute during which the shots were fired "most likely occurred from a stupid parking spot". He added: "What we know is that there was some type of argument between two cowards, and of course they both opened fire on each other. In the crossfire, a 12-year-old little girl, who was probably down there watching football, was shot and killed."
Mayor of Baltimore Brandon M. Scott described the incident as "one of the most disgusting things" he has seen in his life. He said: "Two grown men got into an argument and now a 12-year-old is gone."
Investigation under way
The shooting is now being investigated by homicide detectives. A statement from Baltimore Police Department reads: "Upon arrival, officers located a 25-year-old female suffering from an apparent gunshot wound."
"A 12-year-old female victim was also located and transported to an area hospital with a gunshot wound. While officers were on scene, two male victims, a 28-year-old and a 23-year-old, walked into area hospitals seeking treatment for gunshot wounds."
"Despite medical efforts, the 12-year-old victim was pronounced deceased by hospital staff. At approximately 10:00 p.m., detectives were notified that a 35-year-old female walked into an area hospital seeking treatment for a graze wound to the back."
The four remaining victims are currently listed in stable condition. Officers are searching for at least two suspects in relation to the incident. Road closures were in place as emergency services were called to the scene.
