BREAKING NEWS: Shooting at Louisiana Parade Leaves 6 Injured - Developing...

CLINTON, Louisiana — A festive Mardi Gras parade in this small East Feliciana Parish town turned into a scene of chaos and terror on Saturday when gunfire erupted, leaving six people wounded—including a young child—and prompting an immediate lockdown of the event.

The shooting occurred shortly after the start of the 21st annual "Mardi Gras in the Country" parade, which rolled near the East Feliciana Parish Courthouse around noon. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, sending parade-goers scattering in panic as beads, music, and celebration gave way to screams and emergency response.

East Feliciana Parish Sheriff Jeff Travis confirmed that six individuals were struck by gunfire. Among the victims was a 6-year-old child, along with several adults. Authorities described at least one child and one adult as being in critical condition, while the status of the others remains under evaluation at area hospitals. No fatalities have been reported as of late Saturday afternoon.

"One minute it was throws and laughter, the next everybody started running," one attendee told local reporters, echoing accounts of sudden pandemonium.

Law enforcement responded swiftly, taking one suspect into custody at the scene. Some reports indicate additional individuals were detained for questioning, and officials are searching for a vehicle potentially connected to the incident. The motive remains unclear, and the investigation is ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information or video footage to come forward.

The parade was abruptly canceled, bringing an early end to what is typically a beloved community tradition in rural Louisiana, drawing families and locals for a smaller-scale Carnival celebration ahead of the larger festivities in New Orleans.

Community leaders expressed shock and sorrow over the violence marring an event meant to unite residents. "This is heartbreaking, especially with a child involved," Sheriff Travis said in statements to media outlets including WBRZ and WAFB. "We're working around the clock to piece together what happened and ensure justice."

Updates are expected as more details emerge from the investigation.

17GEN4.com