At least six people were killed and approximately two dozen others were "seriously injured" Monday morning in a shooting at Highland Park's Independence Day parade, officials confirmed, urging residents to continue to "shelter in place" as the gunman remains at large.
The shooting happened at 10:14 a.m. in the area of Central Avenue and 2nd Street in downtown Highland Park during the city's Fourth of July parade, authorities said.
The gunman, who has not yet been identified and whose location is currently unknown, was described by Highland Park police as a white man between 18 and 20 years old with a small build and "longer" black hair. He is wearing a white or blue T-shirt, according to Highland Park Police Cmdr. Chris O'Neill.
"We're asking everybody to stay indoors," said Lake County Sheriff Sgt. Christopher Covelli. "Stay vigilant right now. This person has not identified. By all means, at this point, this appears to be completely random."
Covelli said the gunman shot into the parade with a high-powered rifle from a rooftop. He said police are working to locate the man.
"All indications is he was discreet, and he was very difficult to see," Covelli said.
In separate social media videos, several gunshots could be heard, followed by a pause and another round of gunfire. In some videos, more than 50 shots are heard.
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