Fitch band stays safe through Kentucky Derby parade shooting

AUSTINTOWN

While Fitch High School marching band performed in the Kentucky Derby’s Pegasus Parade in Louisville, Ky., gunfire interrupted the normally cheery procession.

According to WLKY Local News, two teenagers were injured Thursday near the ongoing parade.

“Police said two 15-year-olds opened fire. The two are charged with two counts of assault, tampering with physical evidence, possession of a handgun by a minor and receiving stolen property [firearm],” the report said.

The suspects are in custody and the victims are expected to recover.

The annual parade started in 1956. It takes place in advance of the Derby and features some of the country’s best marching bands and equestrian units.

Austintown Superintendent Vincent Colaluca said the band was in no danger and all students were in safe hands.

“We entrust our teachers to go with them and keep them safe,” he said. “You can’t forsee everything that happens, but they were in safe hands.”

Colaluca said the marching band goes all over and unfortunately in Kentucky was met with “individuals who weren’t making good decisions.”