GALVESTON, TX – A shooting occurred during the Lone Star Rally on The Strand Saturday night, resulting in several individuals sustaining serious injuries, as reported by the Galveston Police Department. The incident unfolded at approximately 11 p.m. in the vicinity of The Strand, specifically between 21st and 22nd streets. To facilitate their investigation, law enforcement authorities cordoned off several blocks in the area. The scene revealed the presence of multiple shell casings, but details regarding the arrest of the shooter remain undisclosed as of now.
Galveston Police Chief Douglas Balli stated that one individual had been detained for questioning, yet confirmation of the shooter’s apprehension remains pending. The motive behind the shooting has yet to be determined. Chief Balli expressed his belief that the incident is an isolated one, emphasizing that such violence had not occurred at the Lone Star Rally previously, and he hopes it will not recur. As of 12:30 a.m. on Sunday, all the injured individuals were still alive despite being in serious or critical condition.
To accommodate the investigation, authorities temporarily closed off a four-block stretch of The Strand, inconveniencing many Lone Star Rally attendees whose motorcycles were trapped within the crime scene. Chief Balli assured that efforts were underway to reopen the roads, allowing motorcycle owners to retrieve their bikes. Forensic crime scene officers departed the scene at approximately 2 a.m., and those who have yet to retrieve their motorcycles can contact the Galveston Police.
The Lone Star Rally, recognized as North America’s largest four-day motorcycle rally, draws an estimated 400,000 attendees annually. Promoters had previously noted the presence of law enforcement officers on standby to monitor the crowd and ensure the safety of participants.