Hollywood, FL police are searching for 3 gunmen who wounded 9 people on Memorial Day at Hollywood Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk. The three suspects opened fire on a crowded beach boardwalk with no regard for life. Stray bullets hitting 3 children, including a 1-year-old, while beach goers frantically ran for cover. Bystanders were stuck by the reckless gunfire and trampled on as the chaos erupted.
The shooting began around 7 p.m Monday as a group of people fought on the oceanfront boardwalk. A witness, Jamie Ward, said several young men were fighting when one of them pulled a gun and started firing.
Witness helped police snatch up suspects quickly that were lingering in the area. According to police reports; one witness told police that she recognized a group of young men in the area later Monday as being involved in the shooting. When an officer approached the group, he noticed one of the men. He was trying to hide a black backpack. The officer reported that he ordered the man to sit and then took the man’s bag. Inside, the officer found a 9mm handgun loaded with seven rounds.The man was later identified as Deslouch.
At the same time, a detective was transporting witnesses to be interviewed when he spotted Stewart walking down the street. He arrested him immediately. Earlier, a witness had taken photos and video of Stewart and one of the shooting suspects. The witness told police the shooting suspect had given Stewart a gun. When the detective stopped and searched Stewart, the detective reported finding a fully loaded 9mm handgun in Stewart’s backpack.
Police spokesperson advised four children between the ages of 1 and 17 were shot, along with five adults between 25 and 65. Six of those shot remain hospitalized in stable condition, while three have been released, reported by police.
The names of those wounded have not been released.
Deslouches is charged with grand theft of a firearm, carrying a concealed firearm and removing serial numbers from a firearm. He’s being held on $20,000 bail.
Stewart is charged with carrying a concealed firearm and was being held on $15,000 bail.
As more details develop you will be able to find updates here.
Photo: Getty Images
Video: WGN News YouTube