Mass Shooting in Downtown Orlando Two Dead, Multiple Injured During Halloween Festivities

Orlando, FL – A festive Halloween night in downtown Orlando turned tragic when a mass shooting left two people dead and several others injured. The incident unfolded just after 1 a.m. on Friday, near the bustling intersection of Orange Avenue and Central Blvd., where crowds were enjoying the holiday at bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Details of the Incident

According to Orlando Police Chief Eric Smith, a 17-year-old boy has been taken into custody in connection with the shooting. Police responded swiftly to reports of gunfire, tackling the alleged gunman shortly after identifying him. The suspect is currently being interviewed by detectives, while the motive for the shooting remains under investigation.

Victims Identified

The two deceased victims have been described as follows

Victim 1: Black Male, 25

Victim 2: White Male, 19

The injured victims, ranging in age from 18 to 39, include

Victim 3: White Male, 18, shot in the lower left leg

Victim 4: White Female, 39, shot in the left hand

Victim 5: Hispanic Female, 24, shot in the left leg

Victim 6: Black Male, 20, grazed by a bullet on the head

Victim 7: Hispanic Male, 26, shot in the right foot

Victim 8: Hispanic Female, 19, shot in the upper back, with a bullet lodged in her cheek

Victim 9: Hispanic Female, 26, injured from being trampled as crowds fled the scene

Eyewitness Accounts and Community Response

Witnesses reported a sudden eruption of panic as gunfire rang out, prompting crowds to scatter in all directions. Videos captured by onlookers show moments of chaos, with people running away from the scene. Congressman Maxwell Frost, representing Florida’s 10th district, urged the public to avoid downtown Orlando as reports of injuries emerged.

Investigating the Alleged Gunman

The suspect, armed with a handgun, had a prior arrest in 2023 for grand theft, though details of that case have not been disclosed. Chief Smith noted that the teen had not been in downtown Orlando for long before the shooting and had not entered any local businesses.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact

The Orlando Health Regional Medical Center reported treating nine patients injured in the shooting. As the investigation continues, community leaders and residents are grappling with the shock of this violent incident amid what was meant to be a joyful celebration.

This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available. For ongoing coverage, stay tuned to FOX 35 News.