BLOOMINGTON, IN — What was meant to be a weekend of celebration for the iconic Little 500 quickly turned into a scene of terror on Kirkwood Avenue early Sunday morning.
In a major update released Sunday afternoon, Bloomington officials clarified the toll of the violence. While it was initially reported that nine people were wounded, investigators now believe five females were struck by gunfire, while four others sustained injuries like cuts and scrapes while desperately fleeing the area.
The Victims: Non-Students from Across Indiana
The victims, ranging in age from 17 to 22, traveled from various parts of the state to take part in the weekend festivities. Notably, Bloomington Police confirmed that none of the victims are Indiana University students.
The Mayor’s office released specific details on the gunshot victims:
- Plainfield Woman (20): Suffered a bullet wound to the upper torso and fragments in her side.
- South Bend Woman (18): Sustained fragments in her ankle and shin.
- South Bend Woman (22): Sustained fragments in the back of her thigh.
- Indianapolis Teen (17): Sustained fragments in her foot and ankle.
- Indianapolis Woman (21): Sustained fragments in her shins and thighs.
How the Violence Erupted
According to Bloomington Police Department (BPD) Chief Michael Diekhoff, officers were already monitoring a massive crowd in the 400 block of East Kirkwood Avenue around 12:25 a.m. when the shots rang out.
Investigators believe the incident began with a physical fight between two women near the front of the Five Guys restaurant. The situation escalated instantly when multiple bystanders drew handguns. At least two individuals reportedly opened fire, sending hundreds of people running for cover.
“I saw a girl reach toward her pants leg and start firing. By then, I was already running the other way,” one witness told 13News.
Massive Police Response; Suspects at Large
BPD was assisted by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Indiana State Police, and IU Police. Investigators utilized drones (RPAVs) and a state police helicopter to document the sprawling crime scene.
Despite having reviewed significant cell phone and business surveillance footage, no suspects are currently in custody. Mayor Kerry Thomson addressed the city via Facebook Live, stating, “There is no place for gun violence in our city… Those who were injured are in my prayers.”
Community Concerns Over Safety
While some residents feel this was an isolated incident fueled by “people getting crazy” during a high-profile weekend, others are calling for a permanent increase in security on Kirkwood.
“I feel like it should be a little more secure… just so something like that doesn’t happen again,” one witness remarked.
Can You Help Investigators?
The Bloomington Police Department is asking anyone with cell phone video of the fight or the shooting to come forward.
- Contact: Detective Chris Scott at 812-339-4477.
What do you think, Bloomington? Is Kirkwood Avenue becoming less safe during major event weekends? Should there be more checkpoints or a higher police presence during Little 500?
Share your thoughts and any information you have in the comments below.
