JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — One person is dead after an active shooter incident occurred in Jacksonville Beach's busy downtown area on St. Patrick's Day, police said.
Jacksonville Beach Police Department spokeswoman Tonya Tator said three people were shot around 8 p.m. Sunday. Jacksonville Beach was placed on lockdown.
The suspects are at large, she said. She said the agency is urging people with knowledge of the incident to come forward. The area was being evacuated as officers collect evidence and search for the suspects. The number of suspects is unclear.
JBPD said Sunday it was securing he scene. Cameras showed a heavy police presence near the 2nd Avenue beach access and 1st Street.
JBPD confirmed the one death and two victims in critical condition.
Witnesses told First Coast News they heard gunshots and saw people running, and a person receiving CPR near Joe's Crab Shack.
Jacksonville Beach Mayor Christine Hofmann said she was at the scene to show support for officers. Multiple agencies were at the scene. She said business owners acted bravely on a busy weekend that featured St. Patrick's Day and The PLAYERS.
"We have a lot going on out here," Hoffmann said. "The fact we had a couple of bad actors out here that really made a dangerous situation for everyone is extremely tragic and unfortunate."
"The Jacksonville Beach Police Department is currently working an active shooter incident in our downtown area. This is an active scene and we are asking everyone to shelter in place at this time. If you have any information that can assist us, please call 904-270-1661," the department said in a statement.