Cincinnati authorities are expressing deep shock and indignation over a drive-by shooting that unleashed over twenty bullets into a gathering of children, resulting in the tragic death of an 11-year-old boy and injuries to four other children and one adult.

The incident occurred near an intersection on Friday night, as revealed by Police Chief Terri Theetge in a briefing to reporters on Sunday.

The gunfire, comprising 22 rapid shots, came from an occupant in a dark sedan. The victims included boys aged 11, 12, 13, and 15, along with a 15-year-old girl and a 53-year-old woman.

One of the injured victims remains hospitalized but is in stable condition, USA Today reported.

Two of the children attended Cincinnati Preparatory Academy, including the boy who lost his life, while the other three were students in Cincinnati public schools.

All but one of the injured victims have been discharged from the hospital.

Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval, describing the shooting as “sickening and unimaginable,” and explained that the children were engaged in outdoor activities when the gunfire erupted in the city’s West End.

The location is in close proximity to a day care center, a girls’ dance studio, and a playground.

Authorities have not disclosed any details about a potential suspect, nor have they indicated whether the shooting was a targeted incident.

Written by B.C. Begley