SAN ANTONIO, TX – A festive event turned tragic late Saturday night at Market Square during the Fiesta de los Reyes, as two men engaged in a fatal shootout in the midst of the crowd. San Antonio police reported that the officers present at the scene also discharged their firearms in response.
The shooting resulted in the death of both men involved and left several bystanders injured. Initial reports from the police stated that six people were injured, but the count was later revised to four. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting is currently ongoing.
The incident has sparked concerns over safety at public events. One anonymous regular attendee expressed his apprehension, noting that the event, traditionally a family affair, has become increasingly dangerous. The man, who was present at the square waiting for a concert to start when the shooting occurred, is now reconsidering his attendance next year.
Jaime Herrejon, a vendor at Market Square for the last 50 years, shares the same concern. He fears that this shooting, coupled with other recent incidents, might deter people from participating in future celebrations. Herrejon recalled an incident from the previous week at the same event where two officers were injured while trying to control several fights in the crowd.
Despite rumors of tear gas being used to disperse the crowd, the San Antonio Police Department denied these claims without providing further details. Herrejon emphasized the need for increased safety measures to prevent weapons from entering the event, suggesting the use of metal detectors or wands for checking attendees.
The city, event organizers, and vendors are expected to discuss ways to enhance safety at the event. However, Herrejon mentioned that previous suggestions, such as fencing off the area, have been rejected by vendors in the past.
Efforts to reach Jacob Valenzuela, the executive director of Rey Feo Consejo Educational Foundation, which oversees Fiesta de los Reyes, for comments on potential changes for next year have so far been unsuccessful.