The festive atmosphere at the lighting of the Christmas tree at FOX Square in Cleveland turned into a scene of tragedy on Saturday night. Following the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, a large fight broke out, resulting in a shooting that left two juveniles wounded. Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb, a Democrat, expressed both sadness and anger over the incident.
The Cleveland Division of Police (CDP) reported that the two victims, aged 15 and 13, were immediately taken to the hospital. The shooting occurred at around 8:45 p.m. in Public Square, drawing attention to the need for increased safety measures during public events. A suspect was apprehended promptly, but the identities of the victims and the suspect have not been disclosed.
Mayor Bibb condemned the senseless violence and called for an end to the cycle of violence in the city. He emphasized the importance of finding better ways to resolve conflicts and ensuring the safety of Cleveland residents. The mayor expressed gratitude to the CDP for their swift response and announced that a second suspect, also a juvenile, was taken into custody.
While one of the victims remains in serious condition, the other is currently in stable condition. Mayor Bibb urged residents to join neighborhood safety initiatives and emphasized that everyone, including government, police, residents, parents, and caregivers, plays a role in creating a safer Cleveland.
The Cleveland Division of Police is actively investigating the incident and working to establish the circumstances that led to the shooting. The mayor’s statement highlighted the city’s commitment to safety through initiatives like RISE and various programs supporting youth, empowering families, and improving neighborhoods. Mayor Bibb encouraged reporting concerning activities, being aware of children’s whereabouts, and getting involved in groups and organizations that promote neighborhood safety.
The shooting at the Cleveland Christmas tree lighting ceremony serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing challenges of violence in the city. It underscores the need for collaborative efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.
