Richmond, VA – Two people are dead and several others were injured after a shooting broke out following a high school graduation ceremony on Thursday night.

The incident occurred around 8:00 pm, just after the ceremony had concluded in the parking lot of the Virginia State Capitol. Witnesses reported hearing multiple shots fired and chaos immediately ensued.

Police quickly arrived on the scene and found two victims deceased. Several others, including a police officer, were injured. It is unclear at this time what caused the altercation or who was involved.

Governor Ralph Northam issued a statement following the incident, saying, “I am heartbroken by the senseless violence that occurred in our state’s capital tonight. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We are working closely with law enforcement to gather more information and bring those responsible to justice.”

The investigation is ongoing, and police are asking anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. The area around the State Capitol has been cordoned off, and officials are urging the public to avoid the area.

This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing gun violence epidemic in the United States and the urgent need for sensible gun reform.