UPDATE
The Foreign Minister of Mexico, Marcelo Ebrard Casaubon, informed through his Twitter account that a Mexican was among those who lost their lives this morning, July 4, after the shooting during a parade commemorating the U.S. Independence Day in Highland Park, Illinois.
He also pointed out that, according to information provided to the Mexican Consul in Chicago, Reyna Torres, two other people of Mexican origin were injured.
Lake County authorities confirmed that following the shooting in Highland Park, Illinois, this July 4 morning during the Independence Day parade, there are at least 6 dead and two dozen wounded.
The Lake County Sheriff's Office, where Highland Park is located, confirmed the tragedy, which authorities are citing as an act of terrorism, and have called on everyone to stay away from the site.
"We are assisting Highland Park Police with a shooting in the area of the Independence Day parade route. STAY OUT OF THE AREA: allow law enforcement and first responders to do their job," they detailed in a tweet.
"This was an act of incident and all individuals are urged to seek shelter in place at this time. Highland Park police and numerous federal, state and local law enforcement agencies are searching for the suspect," he noted.
He said the suspect is currently described as a white male, approximately 18 to 20 years of age, with long black hair and a white or blue T-shirt.
"We have secured the perimeter around the Highland Park center and are in continuous search."
He further noted that some people have been transported to Highland Park Hospital, while 6 have been confirmed deceased.
The commander asked anyone who was at the parade and has video or photos of the events, as well as evidence, to contact Highland Park Police at 84 7432 7730.
In view of the facts, the Sheriff's Office called not to approach the place and to keep their families safe.
@itubeclips v.c @leonarcos11 #4thofjulyparade #illinois #highlandpark #breakingnews ? original sound - iTube
"We are assisting Highland Park Police with a shooting in the area of the Independence Day parade route. STAY OUT OF THE AREA: allow law enforcement and first responders to do their job," details one tweet.
For her part, Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering lamented the terrible act that has claimed the lives of 6 people.
"This morning at 10:14 a.m., our community was terrorized by an act of violence that has shaken us to our core," he said. "Our hearts go out to the families of the victims during this devastating time on a day when we gather to celebrate community and freedom where we instead mourn loss. The tragic loss of life and the fight against the terror that engulfed us as we all bear the burden of this terrible deed."
He emphasized that help has been forthcoming from local governments, the state and federal forces.
"Multiple agencies, including the FBI and state police are working with our local authorities. While authorities do their work, we ask everyone to stay indoors and be on high alert. But remain calm. Please contact your loved ones and make sure they are safe and let them know you are safe as well."
He stressed that, so far, everything indicates that the act was "completely random".
For its part, the Mexican consulate in Chicago has shared the emergency number of its protection department, in case there are Mexicans affected by the shooting.
"In reference to the Highland Park shooting, we are sharing our Protection department's emergency number: 312-929-9013. You can also call #CIAM 24 hours a day at 520-624-7874 or contact us by emailing conchicago@sre.gob.mx."
You may be interested in: Abortion rights protest to take place in SF this July 4
