Three sports journalists were reporting live on air when they realized a deadly shooting had erupted at the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory parade Wednesday.
Channel 41 reporters Caitlin Knute, Kevin Holmes and Mick Shaffer were happily discussing the day’s celebrations in the Missouri city while they slowly realized there was an unusual amount of shrieking and running coming from the thousands of fans in the streets.
“We’ve got, uh — crowds are dispersing,” a confused Knute said as the camera panned to the crowd frantically looking for cover, shortly after shots rang out at the end of the victory parade west of Union Station.
Shaffer attempts to explain the sudden dispersment, but finds himself unable to find an answer before anchor Holmes trepidatiously notes: “It looks like they are running.”
The trio continues watching on in confusion as the realization that they could be in danger settles in.
“We might have a situation here. We’re trying to keep an eye on it,” Knute said.
“The crowds are dispersing rather quickly, and it looks a little different than in normal years,” Holmes added.
“We’re not sure if they’re rushing to their vehicles, or to the shows, or if there’s some sort of disturbance. I can see people jumping the fence right now, and I’m not sure exactly where it is that they’re going.”
Footage shows the Chiefs fans desperately running in various directions as some officers weave through the crowds.
One group of jersey-wearing celebrants can be seen kneeing and laying low to the ground.
There had been a heavy police presence at the parade all day in anticipation of any type of disturbance, Knute notes.
That’s when bystanders began shouting at the three reporters, who were filming from an elevated stage, to take cover.
“Some people in the crowd are telling us to get down,” Knute said, before asking her in-station teammates to take over the broadcast so that she, Holmes and Shaffer could find safety.
One person was killed in the chaotic shooting and nine others were injured. Three victims were in critical condition, while five others suffered serious injuries, fire officials said.
Several suspected shooters were taken into custody.
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas urged revelers to “please stay clear of the area.”
Child reunification stations have been set up inside the station’s main entrance and at 2301 Main St. Police said they “still have several needing reunification.”
The shooting is under investigation.
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