Tragedy struck in downtown Orlando during Halloween celebrations as eight people were shot in the bustling crowd, leaving two dead and six others injured. Orlando Police Chief Eric Smith confirmed these details in a briefing, stating the victims' ages ranged from 19 to 39. The shootings, which occurred shortly after 1 a.m. near East Central Boulevard and North Orange Avenue, and a second call of further gunfire south of Washington Street on North Orange Avenue, have led to the apprehension of a 17-year-old suspect. The teenage suspect was arrested near the second crime scene, with a gun recovered at the site, FOX59 reported.

Authorities were quick to respond, with nearly 100 officers reportedly on duty in anticipation of the large Halloween crowds, which Orlando Police estimated to swiftly reach between 50,000 to 100,000 people. In the wake of the violence, Smith indicated that officers were able to rapidly secure the area and take the suspect into custody, suggesting a response borne out of preparedness, as reported by NBC News. The suspect, with a prior arrest record for grand theft, will potentially face charges as an adult, a matter still under consideration by Florida State Attorney Andrew Baine, as reported by FOX59.

The shooting victims were taken to Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center and are reported to be in stable condition. Officials have not yet released the identities of those killed or injured.

The suspect is now detained, and law enforcement authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the shootings, particulars that have yet to emerge. Orlando Police Chief Eric Smith, in a statement obtained by WFLA, stated, " a 17-year-old, was taken into custody and does have a previous arrest record."