SPOKANE, Wash. — Two people went to a hospital Saturday night after a shooting in downtown Spokane during the Armed Forces Torchlight Parade.
According to the Spokane Police Department (SPD), the suspect has been detained. SPD said it happened just before 9 p.m. at a business in the area of West Sprague Avenue and South Washington Street. SPD reported the shooting doesn't appear to be related to anything with the parade.
Officers responded to the incident quickly since they were already downtown working the parade. The parade was rerouted because of the shooting but continued.
Mayor Lisa Brown released a statement about 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.”
The Spokane Lilac Festival Association (SLFA) also released a statement saying the shooting happened inside a local business on the parade route. The suspect was quickly taken into custody by officers on duty for the parade. The parade paused for 30 minutes while the investigation was ongoing.
"Some units made the decision to withdraw while most chose to continue. Maintaining calm and public safety were a top priority throughout the course of the incident," said the SLFA in a press release. "The SLFA would like to thank SPD for their quick action and calm handling of the situation, allowing for a safe conclusion to the 2024 parade."
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