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Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival shooting leaves one injured, forces early shutdown
A shooting incident at the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival in Louisiana has left one person injured. The festival was shut down early on Saturday night.
A shooting incident at the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival in Louisiana has left one person injured. The festival was forced to shut down early on Saturday night because of the incident.
According to the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office, the victim suffered an abdominal injury and is currently hospitalized. A second individual was treated for a graze wound.
"The festival is being shut down early at this time following confirmation of one individual shot on the festival grounds," the sheriff's Office said in a statement on Facebook.
“Sheriff Sticker, TPSO personnel and the dozen+ assisting agencies will continue to be stationed and patrolling the grounds and surrounding participating sections of downtown for the entirety of the final day. While we pray for the recovery of those injured, we vow to hold accountable those responsible for ruining what has, so far, been an exceptional weekend," the statement continued.
“We hope those who were planning to visit this event and community Sunday keep those plans and that everyone practices patience and respect for all present especially the hundreds of families with young children just trying to enjoy the beautiful weather at a treasured tradition.”
Festival officials also released a statement confirming that the event will resume on Sunday with adjusted hours.
“Due to an unfortunate incident that occurred on our grounds and for the safety of our guests, the festival closed early tonight. We want to thank everyone for their understanding and cooperation. We are so thankful for the Ponchatoula Police Department, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office, and the 10+ other agencies that secured our grounds efficiently and quickly,” the statement read.
“With that being said, we WILL be open tomorrow starting with Church Service at 9am. Rides will begin at 10am. We will be closing EARLY at 5pm instead of the scheduled 7pm. Our non-profits will be cooking up the good stuff, and the weather will be perfect! Please consider spending the last of your weekend in Memorial Park.”
