WAUKESHA, Wis. — An SUV plowed into a Wisconsin Christmas Parade Sunday evening, leaving at least five people dead and more than 40 injured, according to Waukesha, Wisconsin, city officials.
A “person of interest” was in custody, according to Waukesha Police Chief Dan Thompson, but they did not release any details about the person or a motive. The investigation is ongoing.
At 4:39 p.m. CST Sunday, a red SUV was seen breaking through police barriers and speeding into the roadway where the parade was taking place in Waukesha, a suburb of Milwaukee. Police will hold a press conference at 1 p.m. CST Monday, Nov. 22 to provide more information.
The SUV that was seen speeding through the parade has been recovered.
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers wrote on Twitter that he and his wife Kathy “are praying for Waukesha tonight and all the kids, families, and community members affected by this senseless act.”
“I’m grateful for the first responders and folks who acted quickly to help, and we are in contact with local partners as we await more information,” he added.
Wisconsin’s attorney general Josh Kaul wrote on Twitter that “what took place in Waukesha” Sunday is “sickening” and pledged that “those responsible would be brought to justice.”
“My heart is with Waukesha tonight in the aftermath of this horrific tragedy,” the state’s lieutenant governor Mandela Barnes wrote on Twitter. “My thoughts are with victims & their families, and my gratitude is with first responders & those who mobilized to save others.”
Chief Thompson added that officials do not believe there were any shots fired from the person driving the SUV. A Waukesha police officer fired his gun in an attempt to stop the vehicle from fleeing. No bystanders were injured as a result of the officer’s shots.
The shelter in place that was sent out to the city of Waukesha is no longer in effect, however police are asking for people to stay out of the area. Roads will remained closed overnight.
There is a family reunification area taking place Sunday night at Waukesha South High School. For those who are still seeking to locate family members, call 262-548-7122.
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