Rocky Mount NC security officer shot several times during school party
Rocky Mount NC October 23 2019
Rocky Mount police were searching Monday for clues after gunfire erupted at a back to school party late Sunday night, leaving four people hurt, authorities said.
Investigators have not yet publicly disclosed the identities of the victims, their ages or their conditions. One person was treated at the scene while three others were rushed for treatment to UNC Hospital.
None of the injuries are believed to be life threatening.
As of Monday evening, no arrests had been made in connection with the shooting.
According to the Rocky Mount Police Department, around 11:30 p.m. on Sunday, there was a fight inside the Rocky Mount Moose Lodge, located at 521 Country Club Drive, that spilled outside into the parking lot.
Police said dozens of teens were inside the hall when gunfire erupted, sending a panic through the crowd and people running.
“I was basically standing right there smoking a cigarette and the car came in and shot the place up and then drove on out,” said Tom Blackford, the lodge administrator.
He said the party was breaking up when someone began firing.
Robert Hayes who lives in a nearby camper said he went outside after hearing two shots.
“I opened the door, thinking someone may have shot my dog and that‘s when four rapid fire (sounds) came up” from the scene, Hayes said. “This girl was laying on the ground hollering and crying and I asked her if she was hurt and they just got her up and put her in the car and they left. I don‘t know if she got shot or what.”
Hayes said a security guard was wounded, suffering a gunshot wound to the ankle and buttocks.
The lodge had been reserved for the party, and the facility prohibits guns during events.
According to its website, the Rocky Mount Moose Lodge is a fraternal organization with male and female members. Membership involves volunteer opportunities as well as activities like holiday parties, dances, sports, themed dinners and live entertainment, the website reads.
