Tragedy struck a concert for Rapper GloRilla in Rochester, New York, on Sunday night when a stampede resulted in two fatalities and eight injuries.
Police were initially dispatched to the Main Street Armory event venue in response to reports of shots fired, but upon investigation, there was no evidence of any shooting.
After further investigation, it was determined that the injuries were caused by a large number of people pushing toward the exits after hearing noises that sounded like gunshots.
The first victim was a 33-year-old woman; the other victim has yet to be identified by police. The eight other injured individuals were taken to a local hospital, two of whom were in critical condition.
Rochester Mayor Malik Evans expressed his grief over the incident and stated that it was “totally unacceptable” to be trampled at a concert.
Police Chief David Smith said they are interviewing concertgoers and security agents and working with fire marshals to determine the capacity of the venue.
The Main Street Armory is compliant with all fire codes, and eight Rochester police officers were posted outside the building. Investigators are requesting that anyone with video of the event come forward.
Rapper GloRilla, the artist who was performing at the venue, tweeted her prayers for everyone affected.