Denver mass shooting injures 9 as crowd gathers to celebrate Nuggets' NBA win
Denver Police Department
At least nine people were injured in a mass shooting on Tuesday (June 13) near downtown Denver, the United States. Local police said that the incident took place near the arena where the crowds gathered to celebrate after the Nuggets won their first NBA title on Monday night.
Police said in a statement that they are probing a shooting incident in the 2000 block of Market St. The preliminary information indicates that nine total gunshot victims have been identified from the shooting. The department said that four victims are being transported to the hospital.
Three victims are in critical condition, the other victims, including the suspect, are believed to have non-life-threatening injuries.
The investigation is underway, and the police statement mentioned that officers have taken a possible suspect into custody who also has a suspected gunshot injury.
The department said, "This is a complex, ongoing investigation in its early stages. Preliminary info indicates multiple shots were fired during an altercation involving several individuals."
A police spokesperson said that many of those fans had dispersed before the shooting began, however, there was a smaller crowd lingering around the area.
US gun violence
According to the Gun Violence Archive, which is a non-governmental group, it was one of 290 mass shootings recorded in the United States so far this year.
The US has the highest rate of gun deaths of any developed country — 49,000 in 2021, up from 45,000 the year before. A nation with more firearms than inhabitants.
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Nuggets' first NBA title
Earlier on Monday night, police said access to the city's downtown around the arena would be limited due to road closures, and warned of big crowds and heavy road traffic.
After the Nuggets won the title, fans took to the streets of Denver to celebrate after Nikola Jokic powered the team to a 94-89 win over the Miami Heat.
Fans who were inside the raucous Ball Arena cheered wildly as Jokic was named Finals MVP. The win ended a 47-year championship wait by taking the best-of-seven series 4-1.
(With inputs from agencies)
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