One person has been killed and six others injured in a shooting at an unsanctioned party in Morgan Hill, California, authorities say. Deputies from the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office responded at about 10:16 p.m. on Saturday to Hale Avenue near Miramonte Avenue after receiving reports of intoxicated people in the roadway and someone throwing bottles at passing vehicles.
When officers arrived, they encountered what the sheriff’s office described as a “chaotic scene,” with more than 300 people fleeing after multiple shots were fired.
“Multiple people had been shot and required immediate medical attention,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
One person was pronounced dead at the scene, while six others with gunshot wounds were taken to local hospitals. Authorities had initially said seven people were injured but later revised the number to six.
Investigators believe a handgun was used in what they described as an “isolated incident.” The gathering had been promoted on social media, according to the sheriff’s office.
“This tragic and senseless violence is entirely unacceptable. Our hearts go out to the victim’s family, those recovering from their injuries and everyone in our community affected by this traumatic event,” the sheriff’s office said.
“We will work tirelessly until those responsible for this horrific act are identified, apprehended, and held fully accountable.”
No arrests have been made.
Detectives said they are pursuing leads to identify the shooter or shooters, adding that the case is expected to be “a lengthy and complex homicide investigation.”
Officers from the Morgan Hill Police Department, San Jose Police Department, Gilroy Police Department and the California Highway Patrol assisted with the emergency response, scene security, traffic control and the investigation.
Authorities have not released a possible motive for the shooting.