By Ebi Kesiena
Five people were killed and 40 others wounded after a vehicle ploughed into a Christmas parade in the US State of Wisconsin, Police said.
Officials said a red SUV broke through barricades at the Christmas parade in Waukesha, a suburb of Milwaukee just after 4:30 pm (2230 GMT), as spectators watched the annual tradition.
The Waukesha Police Department said in a statement on their official Facebook page that it can confirm that five people are deceased and 40 are injured. However, these numbers may change as we collect additional information.
Police added they have a person of interest in custody.
Police Chief, Dan Thompson had earlier told reporters that some of the individuals were children and that officers had recovered the involved vehicle. There were no other threats, officials at the press conference said.
A total of 11 adults and 12 children were taken to six area hospitals, Fire Chief Steven Howard told reporters.
During the incident an officer fired at the SUV in an attempt to stop it, the authorities added.
Schools will not open Monday and roads will remain closed, Thompson said, while the investigation is continuing.
President Joe Biden has received a briefing on the situation and the White House is closely monitoring the situation in Waukesha and our hearts go out to everyone who has been impacted by this terrible incident, said an official.
“We have reached out to state and local officials to offer any support and assistance as needed.”
While local law enforcement were the primary responding entities, the FBI said it was providing assistance.
