BLOOMINGTON, IND. — Five women were injured in a shooting early Sunday morning, just hours after the Little 500 races at Indiana University. The incident occurred near the Five Guys restaurant on Kirkwood Avenue, a few blocks from the university campus, around 12:25 a.m. Sunday, as large crowds of alumni and spectators gathered in the area.
Details of the Shooting
According to Bloomington Police Chief Mike Diekhoff, patrol officers monitoring the crowds heard gunshots and quickly responded to the scene. Upon arrival, they discovered five women aged between 17 and 22 years old who had been injured either by gunshots or bullet fragments. While most victims were treated and released, one woman was hospitalized in stable condition.
Fight Leads to Gunfire
Diekhoff stated that the incident appeared to have started as a fight between two women near the Five Guys restaurant. As the altercation escalated, multiple individuals were seen drawing handguns, and investigators believe that two people opened fire during the chaos.
Investigation and Public Safety
The police chief assured the public that the shooting was not a random act and emphasized that no Indiana University students were believed to be involved in the incident. The university released a statement saying, “Our thoughts are with the victims of this tragic incident. Safety remains our top priority, and we remain in close coordination with local and state law enforcement.”
Mayor’s Statement on Gun Violence
Bloomington Mayor Kerry Thomson condemned the shooting, expressing concern over the safety of public gatherings during such a high-profile weekend like the Little 500. The mayor noted that the Little 500 races attract a significant number of visitors each year, and suggested that the city should consider banning guns at public events. However, Indiana gun laws currently prevent such measures, as the state allows open carry and does not require a concealed carry permit.
“We encourage people not to bring guns to gatherings and we encourage you to speak up to those who can change our gun laws,” Thomson said.
Background on Indiana Gun Laws
In 2022, Indiana repealed its concealed carry permit requirement, and the state also does not mandate background checks or a permit for handgun purchases at the point of sale.
