After the New England Patriots in 2003–04, the Kansas City Chiefs etched their name in history by clinching the Lombardi trophy two times in a row. As the Patrick Mahomes gang’s supremacy began to blow the headlines, the Chiefs fans and players thought they should make it more memorable by celebrating the Chiefs Super Bowl Parade.
Nevertheless, little did they know there were undercover people hiding to turn their joy into sorrow within a moment, marking the joyous day as one of the worst days for the Chiefs fans.
What happened during the Chiefs Super Bowl Parade?
With nearly 1 million people gathered in Kansas City to celebrate the Chiefs’ repeat championship win during the Super Bowl parade, children had a unique opportunity to witness their football heroes.
This special opportunity came for them as school districts in the Kansas City metro area canceled classes, allowing students to join the festivities. However, tragedy struck when a massive shooting occurred while the Chiefs players were still on the victory rally stage.
One person is dead, and 21 others were wounded by gunfire at the end of the Chiefs' Super Bowl parade Wednesday, per authorities.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 15, 2024
Three people have been detained and are under investigation, KC Police Chief Stacey Graves said Wednesday evening.https://t.co/jTuWEQsQ4c
Regrettably, this horrific incident claimed the life of Lisa Lopez-Galvan, a radio DJ from the Kansas City area who was present at the Chiefs victory rally. Her employer, KKFI radio 90.1 FM, announced her passing with deep sorrow and a heavy heart.
“It is with sincere sadness and an extremely heavy and broken heart that we let our community know that KKFI DJ Lisa Lopez, host of Taste of Tejano lost her life.”
According to Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves, the total number of victims from the mass shooting outside Union Station has risen to 22. However, details surrounding Lisa Lopez-Galvan’s death have not been provided by the police. In addition to Lopez, his two nieces and nephew sustained injuries in the incident.
The Kansas City Fire Department reported that among the injured, eight victims had immediate life-threatening injuries. Additionally, seven had life-threatening injuries, and six had non-life-threatening injuries.
Graves informed reporters that three individuals have been detained for questioning in connection with the incident. Now a need for a thorough investigation into this tragic event is a must that occurred amidst what was meant to be a celebratory moment for the Kansas City community.
NFL release official statement following mass shooting
In response to the devastating shooting incident that occurred near the conclusion of the rally in Kansas City celebrating the Chiefs Super Bowl parade, the NFL expressed profound sadness and extended condolences to the victims and all those impacted. The league also acknowledged the swift and comprehensive efforts of law enforcement and emergency responders in addressing the situation.
“We are deeply saddened by the senseless shooting that occurred today near the end of the rally in Kansas City for the Chiefs. Our thoughts are with the victims and everyone affected.”
“We are grateful for the quick and thorough response of law enforcement and emergency personnel.”
— NFL (@NFL) February 14, 2024
Meanwhile, President Joe Biden has urged Congress and the nation to take action following Wednesday’s mass shooting. He appealed to the collective conscience of the nation, calling for decisive action in the face of such senseless violence.
“For this joy to be turned to tragedy today in Kansas City cuts deep in the American soul. Today’s events should move us, shock us, shame us into acting. What are we waiting for? What else do we need to see? How many more families need to be torn apart?”
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes shares his grief over the tragic events, offering prayers for the community.
Praying for Kansas City… 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
— Patrick Mahomes II (@PatrickMahomes) February 14, 2024
Likewise, Chiefs’ standout tight end Travis Kelce expresses profound sorrow and solidarity with those affected by the heinous act, emphasizing the deep connection he shares with the Kansas City community.
“I am heartbroken over the tragedy that took place today. My heart is with all who came out to celebrate with us and have been affected. KC, you mean the world to me,” Kelce wrote.
I am heartbroken over the tragedy that took place today. My heart is with all who came out to celebrate with us and have been affected. KC, you mean the world to me.
— Travis Kelce (@tkelce) February 15, 2024
This shooting adds to the alarming trend of gun violence disrupting American life. Moreover, it marks at least the 48th mass shooting in the United States this year, as per the Gun Violence Archive.
