CALIFORNIA—Four people were killed dead and several others were injured following a shooting at the Gilroy Garlic Festival on Sunday, July 28.
The suspect has been identified as 19 year-old Santino William Legan. Legan was killed by officers when they arrived at the scene.
Stephen Romero, a 6-year-old, was one of the three people killed while at the festival. During an interview with ABC7 News Romero’s grandmother indicated the child’s other grandmother and her daughter-in-law were also injured. She describes Romero as a loving boy.
Video footage depicts people running in several directions trying to flee as gunfire erupted in the area. A woman in her car was seen crying, while a man who was injured in his leg is in the back of a white truck. Officers were searching a home near the festival on Monday, July 29 to gather evidence.
“Our hearts are heavy. Our prayers go out to the family and friends of those who were injured or killed at the Gilroy Garlic Festival. We want to thank all of the first responders for their quick action this evening that saved countless lives,” posted the Gilroy Police Department via Facebook.
President Donald Trump tweeted, “Law Enforcement is at the scene of shootings in Gilroy, California. Reports are that shooter has not yet been apprehended. Be careful and safe!”
Witness line and family reunification line: 408-846-0583. Anyone who witnessed anything is asked to call.
“Please keep the main GPD line for emergencies only. Media please do not call that line. A media line will be posted soon”, tweeted the Gilroy Police Department.
Governor Gavin Newsom tweeted, “This is nothing short of horrific. Tonight, CA stands with the Gilroy community. My office is monitoring the situation closely. Grateful for the law enforcement’s efforts and their continued work as this situation develops.”
A total of 12 people were injured during the shooting. Legan was shot and killed by officers after unleashing fire into the crowd at the festival. According to reports, authorities are investigating if Legan had an accomplice during the incident. The names of the other victims have not yet been disclosed to the public.
