by ReutersNine teenagers were shot at an after-prom party in Jasper, Texas, early Sunday, officials said, prompting an increased police presence at the city’s high school.
None of the gunshot wounds were life-threatening, the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement that followed the shooting at a residence in Jasper, a city of about 7,200 people about 134 miles (215 km) northeast of Houston. Presented some other details about.
The victims were taken to two hospitals, the sheriff’s office said, without specifying the number of shooters.
“This investigation is ongoing and persons of interest are being questioned,” the statement said.
KBMT-KJAC television news reported that the victims ranged in age from 15 to 19.
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TV news reported that Jasper High School held its prom Saturday night in a church meeting hall, which is a right of passage for American secondary schools.
The superintendent of the Jasper Independent School District, John Siebold, pledged full cooperation with any law-enforcement investigation “to bring these perpetrators to justice.”
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“There will be a heavy law enforcement presence this week to ensure the safety of students, as well as counselors for any students who need help,” Siebold said in the statement.
A week ago, Four people were shot dead and 32 injured at Alabama’s “Sweet 16” birthday party In the small town of Dadeville. Five suspects in that shooting have been charged with murder.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported last year that firearms have become the leading cause of death for American children and teens, surpassing motor vehicle accidents.