In yet another tragic incident, Indianapolis has been struck by another mass shooting, this time targeting young children. On Saturday night, at the corner of Illinois and Maryland streets, seven juveniles, all aged between 12 and 16, were shot, sparking a widespread investigation by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD).

The distressing event unfolded at approximately 11:37 p.m., when the first police radio call reported multiple shots fired just south of Washington and Illinois streets. The chaotic scene was described by witnesses as bullets rang out, causing panic and confusion among those present. Masses of people sought shelter and safety, seeking refuge under tables and chairs.

FOX59 and CBS4 digital producer Deja Studdard was among those present at the Sugar Factory, a nearby restaurant, when the shooting occurred. Studdard recounted the terrifying moments, saying that shots seemed to be coming from outside the establishment, prompting everyone to take cover. The restaurant's employees made valiant efforts to keep people protected and secure.

IMPD officers reported that three victims sought safety inside the restaurant. The sky was soon filled with the flashing lights of numerous police cars and ambulance trucks rushing to the scene to aid the wounded. Meanwhile, evacuation efforts were hindered by the arrest of two 17-year-olds for resisting law enforcement and assaulting an officer.

The mayor of Indianapolis, Joe Hogsett, expressed his sorrow and concern over the incident on Easter Sunday. He highlighted the importance of parental supervision and emphasized that children, especially 12-year-olds, should not be out late at night without proper adult guidance. Mayor Hogsett also addressed the issue of youth access to firearms and the need for collaborative efforts to address this concern.

This shooting marks the third consecutive weekend of mass shootings in Indianapolis, following previous incidents at a bar in Broad Ripple and a parking lot on East Washington Street. In response to the escalating violence, the city of Indianapolis is reinforcing its violence reduction strategy, with plans to hire a Chief Violence Prevention Officer dedicated to addressing youth-related issues and prosecuting those who provide firearms to minors.

As the IMPD continues its investigation into this latest mass shooting, the community is left mourning the harrowing experience endured by the young victims and grappling with the urgent need to find lasting solutions to prevent such tragic incidents from happening again.