Tulsa police say several people were hurt after what started as a fight on a busy downtown street. Investigators say several people started shooting. They say officers eventually shot two men with guns, killing one of them.
Police say there were hundreds of people outside on Sunday morning on the sidewalks and in the streets of downtown Tulsa near East Second Street and South Elgin Avenue. Around midnight, police say a fight broke out that ended with gunshots.
Police responded within minutes. Officers say they saw one man shooting into the crowd. They chased him and shot him. At the same time, police say another man with a gun was behind them when an officer fired shots, hitting him. Police say that the man died from his injuries.
“We already had a large police presence in the area, so the response was almost immediate,” said Lt. Andrew Weeden with the Tulsa Police Department.
Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols released a statement about the shooting, saying:
"The overnight shooting in downtown was a senseless act of violence in our community, and my thoughts are with everyone involved. Our residents deserve better, and my office has been in constant contact with the Tulsa Police Department.
"At this time, it appears this was an isolated incident involving two groups. We have the best detectives in the country who will ensure all involved are held accountable and we will be sharing more information as the investigation develops.
"I want all Tulsans to know we will ensure downtown is safe. The days that a small few threaten the safety of the great many are over."
Investigators say at least 5 people were shot, but there may be more victims. Some businesses were damaged, and police are working to get a better picture of exactly what happened. Police say they plan to get with area businesses or anyone who may have surveillance footage to try to piece the events together. Police say no one is in custody.
TPD says the officers involved in the shootings have been placed on administrative leave.
If you have any information that could help police, viewers are asked to call Crime Stoppers at 918-596-COPS.