A gunman opened fire on a group of people gathered outside in Baltimore, Maryland, during the evening, resulting in six injuries, including a five-year-old girl. Police have not yet identified or arrested the suspect in the incident, which has raised alarm in the local community. The attack appears to have been targeted, sparking concern about public safety in the city.
Some of the victims were sitting on a porch and leaning against a car, eating, when the suspect opened fire, according to Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley. A five-year-old girl was shot in the hand and is expected to recover, while another victim remains critically injured and is undergoing surgery. Homicide and District Detective units, along with city fire and emergency medical services, responded to the scene to aid in the investigation.
Authorities have closed several streets in the area and are advising local residents to avoid the vicinity. Investigators are currently speaking with victims and witnesses to determine the motive behind the shooting. No suspects have been identified or apprehended as of Saturday night. The incident occurred in Park Heights, a predominantly black neighborhood in northwest Baltimore and home to the Pimlico Race Course, which hosts the Preakness Stakes. The area has faced economic challenges and high rates of violent crime in recent years.
Baltimore, Maryland recently reported that there were 68 murders in the first six months of 2,025, a significant drop compared to 88 in the same period last year. However, the city continues to rank among the top five in the United States in terms of homicide rates. Known for its portrayal in the police drama series The Wire, Baltimore faces ongoing challenges with public safety, with violent crime remaining a pressing issue despite recent declines in the number of murders.