At least nine people were injured early Sunday when gunfire erupted along a crowded street near Indiana University during celebrations following the Little 500 cycling race, police said. No arrests had been made.
Bloomington police tell Straight Arrow they were monitoring a large crowd in the 400 block of East Kirkwood Avenue when they heard what they believed were multiple gunshots shortly before 12:30 a.m.
Officers told Straight Arrow they have reviewed cell phone footage and video footage from nearby businesses. They now believe that a fight broke out between two women. During the fight, multiple people can be seen drawing handguns. They believe the gunfire came from two separate people.
Authorities said five of the injured suffered direct gunshot wounds and four were injured while trying to flee the area.
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Witnesses told WTHR that the sound of gunfire sent people running in all directions. One witness said the area had been packed with people celebrating when a fight broke out nearby.
“I figured the police would get to it,” the witness said. “Then I saw someone reach toward her leg and start firing, and I ran the other way.”
Indiana University officials said the shooting occurred off campus. An IU Police and Public Safety alert urged people to shelter, lock doors and avoid the area while police investigated. A later alert encouraged the public to continue avoiding Kirkwood Avenue as Bloomington police and university officers remained on scene.
The Little 500, the largest collegiate bike race in the United States, concluded earlier Saturday. Kirkwood Avenue is a popular nightlife area near campus with bars and restaurants.
Indiana University spokesperson Mark Bode said no IU students were believed to be involved.
“Last night marred what should have been a celebratory weekend for the IU and Bloomington communities,” Bode said in a statement to the Indiana Daily Student. “While no IU students are believed to be involved, we condemn the violence in the strongest terms and thank the Bloomington Police Department, IUPD, State Police and other law enforcement agencies who responded.”
