Watch CBS News

Child Shot During Baltimore Fireworks Celebration

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Thousands gathered downtown Monday night to celebrate the red, white and blue.  But among the peaceful celebration, violence broke out.

Mike Hellgren has the latest information from police.

A 4-year-old was shot at the fireworks celebration.  The child's parents were walking with him when he started to cry.  After checking, they saw that he had been shot in the leg.  He was taken to Johns Hopkins where he is in stable condition.

Another person was stabbed near the McCormick and Schmick's and is in critical condition. 

Despite the violence, the show went on.

About 1,400 fireworks provided a dazzling light show. 

"This is a blessed country," said one woman.

As the crowds watched, police were watching them.   They did act quickly after a fight broke out.

"We hope that the visible number of officers will act as a deterrent," said Police Commissioner Fred Bealefeld.

That turned out not to be the case.

Even so, many were excited to celebrate the Fourth of July.

"Just to be here where the Star-Spangled Banner was written...that's why we're here.  We wanted to celebrate our heritage," said one woman.

It's also a massive undertaking requiring weeks of planning.  The spectators seemed to appreciate the effort.

Watch the fireworks

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.