A mass shooting at a video game tournament in Jacksonville, Florida, on Sunday left three deceased and several others injured. The incident took place during a qualifying event for the Madden 19 Tournament at a local shopping and dining plaza. According to preliminary reports from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, at least eleven individuals were shot, with three confirmed fatalities and seven others sustaining injuries. Sheriff Mike Williams indicated that the sole suspect, described as a white male, was found dead at the scene.
Witness accounts reveal the chaos that ensued. One attendee, Daniel Thompson, who traveled from Texas for the tournament, recounted his experience, stating, “Upon hearing the gunfire, I immediately ducked and sought refuge in the nearest restroom, where I remained hidden for approximately ten minutes.” He added, “I’m still in disbelief; it’s hard to articulate my feelings right now.” The sheriff’s office urged the public to avoid the Jacksonville Landing complex, emphasizing the need for safety as law enforcement conducted a thorough search of the area.
During the live streaming of the Madden tournament, the sounds of gunfire were captured, with viewers hearing frantic screams and chaos erupting as the event abruptly halted. Early investigations suggest the shooting occurred within a pizza restaurant that had a dedicated gaming section. The Madden 19 Southeastern Qualifier Tournament, offering a $5,000 prize, was organized by Electronic Arts (EA Sports), which released a statement expressing their condolences and confirming their cooperation with authorities in the ongoing investigation.
In a separate account, Michael Rivera shared that his son had just advanced to the final four when the shooting erupted. The young participant sent a text message informing his father of the situation, stating he had found safety in a restroom stall. Rivera expressed a sentiment of unease, reflecting on the prevalence of such violence: “It’s a terrifying reality; you always think it won’t happen to you until it does.”
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In summary, the tragic event in Jacksonville serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding gun violence, particularly in public spaces. The impact on the community and the individuals involved is profound, highlighting the urgent need for discussions around safety and preventive measures.