Gunfire breaks out during street brawl near University of Iowa, 3 students shot

A shooting erupted in the early hours of Sunday near the University of Iowa campus in the US state of Iowa, after a large street fight spiralled out of control. The violence unfolded just a block from campus buildings, according to local media. At least three students were injured in a mass shooting.

Police said officers were responding to reports of a fight in downtown Iowa City when shots were fired around 1:45 am (local time). According to the Iowa City Police Department, officers had been called to the Pedestrian Mall area after reports of a large fight.

Footage shared on social media captured groups of men exchanging blows as onlookers crowded around. Moments later, gunshots rang out, and separate clips showed people running in different directions in an attempt to escape.

"At this time, multiple victims have been taken to area hospitals to be treated for wounds suffered in the shooting," police said in a statement.

UNIVERSITY CONFIRMS STUDENTS AMONG VICTIMS

University officials later confirmed that three of those injured were students. In a statement, University President Barb Wilson addressed the incident. "I am writing to you with a heavy heart. Early today, a shooting in downtown Iowa City injured three University of Iowa students. Iowa City Police are investigating, with the full support of University of Iowa Police," she said as quoted by US media outlets.

"The university is in close communication with local law enforcement and will share more information as we are able. For now, I encourage you to rely on official university communications for updates," Wilson added.

The extent of the injuries has not been disclosed.

CAMPUS ALERT ISSUED, AREA LOCKED DOWN

The university issued a campus-wide "Hawk Alert" shortly after the shooting, warning students of gunfire near the intersection of East College Street and Clinton Street.

The location is a popular college-bar district, typically crowded during weekend nights and situated close to university facilities.

No arrests have been made so far, and police have launched an investigation into what led to the violence. Officials are urging witnesses to come forward with any information or video evidence that could help identify those involved. Iowa City Area Crime Stoppers has announced a reward of up to $1,000 for information that leads to an arrest.

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