Fourth of July marred by shootings across several US cities and a fireworks-related death

This year’s Fourth of July celebrations were overshadowed by a series of shootings across the United States, including a deadly incident in Indianapolis that claimed at least two lives and drew sharp criticism from local law enforcement.

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Chief Chris Bailey, speaking to reporters early Saturday in the city’s downtown area, expressed frustration over the violence, particularly the role of unsupervised minors.

“Hundreds of unsupervised kids down here,” Bailey said. “We are not your children’s keepers. You are! And parents and guardians have got to step up. A kid is dead tonight. This is completely unacceptable and unnecessary.”

Other cities also reported mass shootings during the holiday period. In Philadelphia, Chicago, and Brockton, Massachusetts, multiple people were injured. In Brockton, a fight early Saturday morning left six people hospitalized.

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Historically, the Fourth of July has been among the deadliest days of the year in the US, with a noticeable surge in shootings and violent incidents during the summer months.

The shooting in Chicago, which left seven people in serious or critical condition came on the heels of another mass shooting that happened late Wednesday in a busy neighborhood known for its restaurants and nightlife. Four people were killed and 14 others injured.

In the New York City borough of Queens, police said one person was dead and three injured following a post-fireworks triple stabbing.

Meanwhile, a Wareham, Mass. man is dead after being hit by a firework. Police said they found 70 year-old Robert Spagnuolo with a “facial injury.” He was pronounced dead at the scene.

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With inputs from agencies