crime

Serious Injury Reported After Shooting Incident at Kearns' Dave Gourley Park

A shooting at Dave Gourley Park in Kearns left one person seriously injured, prompting an investigation by local law enforcement.

Featured image for article: Serious Injury Reported After Shooting Incident at Kearns' Dave Gourley Park
Kearns, Utah - A shooting incident at Dave Gourley Park on Sunday afternoon left one individual in serious condition and sparked an immediate response from local law enforcement. Police received reports of gunfire at approximately 4:00 PM, prompting a swift dispatch of officers to the scene. Upon arrival, they discovered a person suffering from gunshot wounds, who was subsequently rushed to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. The identity of the victim has not yet been released, and authorities are working to gather more information about the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, which sent panic through the park, a popular community spot known for its recreational facilities and family-friendly atmosphere. In light of the incident, the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office has initiated an investigation led by the Violent Crimes Unit, with assistance from the Metro Gang Unit. These specialized teams are tasked with piecing together the events that led to the shooting, examining evidence, and interviewing potential witnesses. "This is a very active investigation, and we are committed to understanding what happened and ensuring the safety of our community," stated Sheriff Rosie Rivera during a press conference held shortly after the incident. "We urge anyone who may have information or who was present at the park during the time of the shooting to come forward." The shooting at Dave Gourley Park underscores a growing concern regarding gun violence in the area. Local residents expressed their shock and concern over the event, emphasizing that the park is typically a safe haven for families and children. “I’ve always felt safe here. My kids love coming to this park, and now I’m worried about what could happen next time,” said a mother of two who was present at the park when the shots were fired. Her sentiments reflect a broader unease among community members, who are now questioning the safety of public spaces they once took for granted. Community leaders are also calling for increased measures to ensure public safety in the wake of this incident. Councilmember Karen Lang, who represents the Kearns area, stated, “We need to come together as a community to address the underlying issues that lead to violence. This is not just a law enforcement problem; it's a community problem that requires our collective action.” As of now, police have not confirmed whether any suspects have been apprehended or if there is an ongoing threat to the community. The investigation is still in the early stages, and authorities are working diligently to gather all pertinent information. Residents in the vicinity of the park are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. This shooting incident serves as a reminder of the need for open dialogue within the community regarding safety and the importance of cooperation with authorities. As the investigation unfolds, updates will be provided to the public to ensure transparency and keep residents informed about any developments. Local news outlets, including FOX 13 News, have pledged to cover this story closely. In the meantime, the community reflects on the incident, hoping for the victim's recovery and for a return to the peace and safety that Kearns residents have long enjoyed. The shooting raises urgent questions about safety, community cohesion, and the measures that can be taken to prevent such incidents in the future. As Kearns grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event, the focus remains on supporting the victim and understanding the factors that led to the violence. Community gatherings and discussions are likely to take place in the coming days as residents seek to address their concerns and reinforce the bonds that make their neighborhood a close-knit and supportive environment. The hope is that through collective effort, they can restore a sense of safety and normalcy to Dave Gourley Park and the surrounding area.