CLEVELAND — Two teens were shot at Public Square in Cleveland on Saturday evening.
According to Cleveland EMS, the incident happened at approximately 8:45 p.m.
A 13-year-old and 15-year-old were confirmed to have been shot. Both were transferred to MetroHealth Medical Center.
The 13-year-old suffered minor injuries. The 15-year-old is currently listed in critical condition.
According to Mayor Justin Bibb, two juveniles are in custody in connection to the shooting.
Mayor Justin Bibb released the following statement regarding the shooting:
"Last night, what should have been an evening of celebration ended in tragedy when two juveniles were shot amid a large fight that broke out after Cleveland's annual tree lighting event on Public Square.
I am grateful to the officers of CDP for their fast and effective response. CDP quickly identified and took two juvenile suspects into custody, both of whom will be presented to the County Prosecutor’s Office. The two victims, ages 15 and 13, were taken to the hospital. One remains in serious condition; the other is stable.
I am both saddened and angered by this senseless violence. Enough is enough. It is time to break the cycle of violence and find better ways to resolve conflicts. Clevelanders deserve to feel safe, and we will continue to focus on and invest in safety each and every day through our RISE initiative and numerous programs that support youth, empower families and improve neighborhoods. Safety isn't just the concern of law enforcement; everyone has a role to play to ensure our public places are safe. This includes all of us, from government and police to residents, parents and caregivers. Report concerning activity. Know where your children are. Get involved with groups and organizations that promote neighborhood safety initiatives. A safer Cleveland takes all of us working together.
This investigation is ongoing, and CDP is providing me with regular briefings as it develops."
Ward 6 Councilman and Council President Blaine Griffin released the following statement in response to the incident:
"The annual Christmas tree lighting in Public Square tonight was attended by hundreds of families and individuals who came for the lights, the fireworks and the activities in and around the square. It was marred by a shooting more than an hour after the lighting, with two young men, 13 and 15 years old, being shot. Officers responded and provided first-aid. Both were transported to a hospital by Cleveland EMS and are reportedly in stable condition.
Cleveland police quickly arrested a suspect. The investigation is continuing. This crime impacted what otherwise was a beautiful evening in Cleveland’s Public Square. I’m deeply saddened by this but we will continue to be vigilant and hold those involved in this crime accountable. This does not define Cleveland."
Downtown Cleveland, Inc. President & CEO Michael Deemer also released a statement Saturday evening:
“Downtown Cleveland hosted a great celebration of the season in Public Square tonight, marred later by senseless violence. We are grateful for the rapid response of the Cleveland Division of Police. There are too many guns in our community and too little respect for life or authority. Our organization is committed to addressing both. There is absolutely no place for violence in Downtown Cleveland.
Everyone should feel safe and be safe in Downtown Cleveland. The level of communication and interaction between CDP with Downtown stakeholders is at an all-time high. We will continue to work with our partners to enhance safety.”
Just hours before the incident, the WinterLand Christmas tree lighting ceremony took place in Public Square.
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