At least six people were killed and 24 others injured after a gunman opened fire at a 4th of July parade in Highland Park, Illinois, on Monday, Associated Press reported. 

The shots were reportedly fired about 10 minutes after the parade kicked off. Several parade-goers were shot, sending a number of people running for safety, Fox 32 reported. 

At least five bloodied people were reportedly found lying on the ground, the Chicago Sun Times reported, quoting witnesses. 

Police told people: “Everybody disburse, please. It is not safe to be here.”

Also Read: Multiple officers shot in Floyd County, Allen; suspect arrested, hostages safe

Debbie Glickman, a Highland Park resident, said she was on a parade float with coworkers and they were prepared to turn onto the main route when she saw people running away from the area.

“People started saying ‘There’s a shooter, there’s a shooter, there a shooter,’” Glickman told the Associated Press.

“So we just ran. We just ran. It’s like mass chaos down there.”

She didn’t hear any noises or see anyone who appeared to be injured.

“I’m so freaked out,” she said. “It’s just so sad.”

Representatives Brad Schneider and Bob Morgan have confirmed that they are “safe.”

“Today a shooter struck in Highland Park during the Independence Day parade. My campaign team and I were gathering at the start of the parade when the shooting started. My team and I are safe and secure. We are monitoring the situation closely and in touch with the Mayor,” Schneider, who represents Illinois’ 10th District in the United States Congress, tweeted.

“Hearing of loss of life and others injured. My condolences to the family and loved ones; my prayers for the injured and for my community; and my commitment to do everything I can to make our children, our towns, our nation safer. Enough is enough!”

Morgan, who represents Illinois’ 58th District, tweeted, For those unaware, there was a shooting at the Highland Park Parade. I am ok but there have been multiple injuries. Please stay out of the area, stay safe, and please pray for those injured.”

This is a developing story