Tragedy Strikes Fort Pierce Community During Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration, 8 Shot and 4 Injured

At least eight people have been shot and four others injured at a Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration in Fort Pierce, Florida, the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed.

The shooting occurred Monday evening at Ilous Ellis Park, where the community was celebrating a car show and “family fun day”, according to the city’s website. The event featured a DJ, kids activities and an afternoon of car show judging, a flyer for the event said.

Public information officer Tonya Woodworth said that one of the shooting victims was critically injured, and four other people were injured while trying to leave the area.

The sheriff’s office did not say whether any suspects are in custody or if they have determined a possible motive for the shooting.

The city of Fort Pierce had organized the event to “honor and celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.” and had expected a large turnout. The event was to include live music, activities for children, a local car show and other events.

The sheriff’s office is continuing to investigate the shooting and is asking anyone with information to contact the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office at 772-462-3230.