The peaceful atmosphere on Hollywood Beach in South Florida was shattered on Memorial Day weekend when a confrontation between two groups escalated into a shooting incident, leaving nine people injured.
Video footage from a 24/7 boardwalk camera captured the distressing events that unfolded just after 6:30 pm on Monday, May 29 as people, including children, hurriedly fled the area, trying to maintain their balance in the midst of the chaos.
According to Deanna Bettineschi, a spokesperson for the Hollywood Police Department, the shooting occurred due to a dispute between the two groups. However, the authorities have not disclosed the identities of those involved or provided updates on the conditions of the victims.
One person of interest has been taken into custody, while a second remains at large. Bettineschi did not reveal the names of these people. However, the victims were taken to Joe Dimaggio Children’s Hospital and Memorial Regional Hospital. Yanet Obarrio Sanchez, a spokesperson for Memorial, confirmed that a few minors were receiving medical treatment.
Witnesses, claiming to have been present during the incident, reported online that the shots were fired near Nicks Bar & Grill, a popular establishment connected to the Hollywood Beach boardwalk in Broward County.
Mayor Levy expressed appreciation for the swift response and assistance provided by good Samaritans, paramedics, police, and emergency room staff in aiding the victims of the shooting.
As authorities continue their investigation, efforts are underway to uncover the circumstances of the incident that marred what should have been a day of remembrance and serenity on the beach.