Photo by Julio Cortez, AP

By TopTrendReportTv

July 2, 2023

A tragic incident unfolded in the Brooklyn neighborhood of South Baltimore in the early hours of Sunday, resulting in the loss of two lives and numerous injuries. According to law enforcement officials, a mass shooting took place during a block party on Gretna Court, with reports of gunshots emerging around 12:30 a.m.

Police have confirmed that at least 30 individuals sustained injuries in the 800 block of Gretna Court. Among the victims, an 18-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene, while a 20-year-old succumbed to injuries at a nearby hospital. Currently, three others remain in critical condition.

The University of Maryland Medical System reported that 12 victims were transported to the Shock Trauma Center, while the hospital's pediatric emergency department is treating four patients.

Acting Baltimore City Police Commissioner Richard Worley stated that upon their arrival, officers discovered multiple gunshot victims. Alongside the deceased woman, nine additional victims were taken to various hospitals in the vicinity. Additionally, 20 other victims sought medical attention at hospitals across the region.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, who was present at the scene early Sunday morning, expressed determination in bringing the perpetrators to justice. He vowed to relentlessly pursue the individuals responsible for the callous act, emphasizing the community's unity and resilience. Scott conveyed his condolences and thoughts to the entire affected community and city.

The shooting incident has elicited reactions from Maryland Governor Wes Moore, as well as other state and city leaders. Governor Moore lamented the tragic turn of events and extended heartfelt sympathy to the victims' families and the Baltimore community, which is grappling with the aftermath of this loss. He condemned the continuous occurrence of such senseless acts of gun violence, promising that the state will spare no effort in preventing similar incidents.

Acknowledging the swift response of first responders, Governor Moore expressed confidence in the law enforcement authorities' ability to swiftly apprehend the perpetrators. He assured local officials of the state administration's support and commitment to provide necessary resources.

The Baltimore City Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) raised concerns about the shortage of personnel in the Southern District during the shooting incident. In a tweet, the FOP noted that the district was understaffed, highlighting the decline in the number of officers over the years. They called upon the Baltimore Police Department and Mayor Brandon Scott to address the issue urgently, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive plan to improve recruitment and retention.

The FOP further disclosed that only seven officers were on patrol duty in the Southern District at the time of the mass shooting, while a decade ago, the number would have been significantly higher. The FOP criticized the previous police commissioner's tenure for resulting in a net loss of 400 officers, stressing the unacceptable consequences of the staffing shortage. They urged Mayor Scott to take immediate action and collaborate with the FOP in formulating strategies to address this pressing concern.