Pensacola, FL — A tragic shooting incident occurred at the Marie Young Wedgewood Community Center on Sunday, where a dice game turned deadly. The incident resulted in two fatalities and left five others wounded, ranging in age from 11 to 29. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances that led to the sudden outburst of violence.
Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons detailed the events at a press conference Monday morning. According to Simmons, the attack was carried out by three unidentified men armed with handguns and an assault-type rifle, who opened fire on the crowd gathered for the game outside the community center. The shooters had arrived and fled in a stolen white Hyundai Sonata, which was captured on surveillance footage.
“The violence that unfolded here is not just about those who pulled the trigger,” Sheriff Simmons said. He emphasized the broader community’s role in harboring individuals who partake in such activities and challenged the community to come forward with any information. “We need to address the network that allows these perpetrators to operate,” he added.
During the press briefing, Simmons also expressed frustration over challenges in gathering witness testimonies, including a specific case where a mother refused to allow her child, who witnessed the incident, to speak to law enforcement officers. “It’s crucial that witnesses come forward to help us piece together this puzzle,” Simmons stated, highlighting the ongoing battle against community silence in such cases.
Following the incident, Commissioner Lumon May announced the immediate closure of the community center for investigation and review. “We recognize that most activities here are positive, but we must ensure they are safe,” May explained, indicating that the closure was part of a broader effort to evaluate and enhance security protocols at community facilities.
May also mentioned grief counseling services would be made available to the community members impacted by the tragedy as part of the county’s response to the shooting. He called for public cooperation with the ongoing investigation, stressing the importance of community engagement in resolving and preventing such crises.
This incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding gun violence in communal settings, illustrating the need for enhanced community involvement and more rigorous preventive measures. As the investigation continues, officials urge anyone with information related to the incident or the suspects involved to contact local authorities. This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of violence and the collective responsibility to foster a safer community environment.