SPOKANE, Wash. — The Spokane Police Department (SPD) is continuing its investigation into the Saturday night shooting in downtown Spokane during the Armed Forces Torchlight Parade.
According to SPD, just before 9 p.m., officers quickly responded to a fight that turned into a shooting inside a business on the 400 block of West Sprague Avenue. Two people, one of whom suffered a gunshot wound, were taken to a hospital because of the altercation. Police detained one person.
On-duty officers at the parade were on the scene quickly and gave the injured people medical aid, according to SPD.
"My entire reaction was just like that just happened. I don't know what's happening," said parade attendee Dylan Sevey.
SPD reportedly worked with the Spokane Lilac Festival Association (SLFA) to create a safety plan for the parade. Officers and SLFA officials delayed the parade for about 30 minutes before rerouting the parade so it wouldn't interfere with the investigation.
"There was just some confusion of what was going on but there wasn't any mass panic," said SLFA co-president Carly Cortright. "We want to make sure that nothing is going to happen to anybody here who is enjoying just a community treasure. So I was very relieved to find out that there wasn't a concern."
SPD said all parties involved have been contacted and are cooperating with the investigation.
Detectives with the Spokane Major Crimes Unit (MCU) are investigating the shooting and will release more information as it becomes available.
Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown issued the following statement on the shooting:
“I am saddened by the violence that occurred near tonight’s parade. My thoughts are with those who were injured, their families, and all those who witnessed this incident. Violence like this should never happen, especially near a place where families are gathered to enjoy a community event. The incident does not appear to be connected to the parade and I am thankful for the quick response by local law enforcement and first responders.”
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