Suspect arrested after 2 teens injured in Public Square shooting during group fight: Police

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) – Cleveland Police say the shooting of two juveniles in Public Square Saturday night started with a fight between a group of teenagers.

Cleveland officers were on foot patrol in Public Square just before 8:45 p.m. when they found a group of teenagers fighting.

Officers then discovered two teenagers with gunshot wounds and administered immediate first aid, according to police.

According to Cleveland EMS, ambulances transported the two teenagers to the hospital gunshot injuries.

One victim, a 15-year-old, is in critical condition, according to EMS.

The other victim, a 13-year-old, faces only minor injuries.

EMS says it happened around 8:45 p.m. near the Soldiers and Sailors Monument.

No word yet if police have any suspects in custody, but 19 News is on the scene.

The president and CEO of Downtown Cleveland, Inc. issued a statement on the shooting just after 10:15 p.m. Friday night:

“Downtown Cleveland hosted a great celebration of the season in Public Square tonight, marred later by senseless violence. We are grateful for the rapid response of the Cleveland Division of Police. There are too many guns in our community and too little respect for life or authority. Our organization is committed to addressing both. There is absolutely no place for violence in Downtown Cleveland. Everyone should feel safe and be safe in Downtown Cleveland. The level of communication and interaction between CDP with Downtown stakeholders is at an all-time high. We will continue to work with our partners to enhance safety.”

Cleveland City Council President Blaine A. Griffin also released his own statement on the shooting:

The annual Christmas tree lighting in Public Square tonight was attended by hundreds of families and individuals who came for the lights, the fireworks and the activities in and around the square. It was marred by a shooting more than an hour after the lighting, with two young men, 13 and 15 years old, being shot. Officers responded and provided first-aid. Both were transported to a hospital by Cleveland EMS and are reportedly in stable condition.

Cleveland police quickly arrested a suspect. The investigation is continuing. This crime impacted what otherwise was a beautiful evening in Cleveland’s Public Square. I’m deeply saddened by this but we will continue to be vigilant and hold those involved in this crime accountable. This does not define Cleveland.

This is a developing story. Return to 19 News for updates.

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