The Delaware State Police are investigating a homicide that occurred on Sunday, October 29, 2023, at approximately 2:47 p.m.
Officials said Troopers were dispatched to a reported shooting on the 500 block of West 7th Street within the town limits of Laurel. Upon arrival, they found an 18-year-old male with multiple gunshot wounds on the porch of a residence.
The victim was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead. His identity is being withheld pending notification of his family and relatives.
Two additional victims, a 15-year-old male and a 13-year-old male, were also found on the porch with gunshot wounds to their lower extremities. Both were transported to an area hospital and are in stable condition. All three victims are residents of Laurel, according to police.
The Laurel Police Department has requested that the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit assume the investigation. Preliminary findings indicate that two unknown suspects approached the victims on foot and began firing multiple rounds. The suspects subsequently fled on foot in an unknown direction. Authorities have determined that the incident was not the result of an active shooter situation police said.
In response to the ongoing investigation and with suspects still at large, Dr. Shawn Larrimore, Superintendent of the Laurel School District, announced the closure of all schools within the district for Monday, October 30, 2023. The district emphasized that the safety and well-being of its students, staff, and community members remain a top priority. The closure serves as a precautionary measure, according to district officials.
The Laurel School District is in close contact with local law enforcement agencies and is monitoring developments closely. The district has also expressed its thoughts and prayers for the students and families affected by the incident and is committed to providing support and resources in the days ahead.
The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is leading the investigation, and as of late Sunday, the suspects involved in the shooting were still at large. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available from law enforcement agencies.