07/05/2022

Fireworks Mistaken for Gunshots Lead to Chaos at July Fourth Events

Chaotic scenes unfolded at celebrations in cities nationwide

Scenes of chaos unfolded at Fourth of July celebrations in cities nationwide, as the booming sounds of fireworks were apparently mistaken for gunshots, sending scores of revelers fleeing for cover.

Crowds panicked and ran from loud noises in Orlando, Harrisburg, Pa., and Washington, suggesting a nation on edge following a recent spate of high-profile mass shootings, including one Monday morning in Highland Park, Ill., that killed six people.

"It is devastating that a celebration of America was ripped apart by our uniquely American plague," said Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. "While we celebrate the Fourth of July just once a year, mass shootings have become our weekly — yes weekly — American tradition."

Please select this link to read the complete article from The Washington Post.