TERRIFYING footage shows beachgoers running for their lives after seven people were reportedly struck in a barrage of gunfire, according to local reports.
Police are responding to reports that a mass shooting broke out during crowded Memorial Day celebrations in Hollywood Beach, Florida.
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At least seven people were struck, including a 15-year-old, WFOR-TV reports, but this number has yet to be confirmed by officials.
Terrified bystanders could be seen sprinting away from a popular restaurant in live camera footage obtained by The U.S. Sun.
One woman protected a small girl with her body after she stumbled in front of the mass of people rushing away from the danger.
Mayor Josh Levy speculated that the gunfire was a targeted shooting, and innocent people were caught in the crossfire, but this has yet to be confirmed.
Horrified onlookers shared videos of the chaotic aftermath on social media that appeared to show one victim being treated while they lay motionless in the sand.
Officials have shut down at least one road and set up a large perimeter as they work to investigate the scene, local reporters said.
Police are urging people to stay away from Hollywood Beach, specifially the area from Johnson to Garfield Street.
It’s unclear whether or not the reported shooting is an active event.
“Our beach has millions of beachgoers a year. It’s a very popular and beautiful destination,” said Levy, per the South Florida Sun Sentinal.
“This is a never before occurrence. Ordinarily it’s a peaceful beach.”
Police have set up a reunification center at Johnson Street and the North Ocean bus loop.
Hollywood Beach police told The U.S. Sun that they could not provide any updates while the situation was being investigated.
The beach is located about 11 miles south of Fort Lauderdale and 20 miles north of Miami.
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