Nine children were injured in a gunfight near a popular Florida beach.

Police respond to shooting near the Hollywood Beach boardwalk. Credit: South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Nine people, including at least three children, were injured in a shooting near a popular beach in Florida as the country celebrated Memorial Day.

Police said a brawl between two groups near Hollywood Beach Broadwalk escalated into a gunfight, according to a preliminary investigation.

The shooting happened around 6:40 p.m. local time on Monday (11:40 p.m.). by Moscow time). ) next to Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Shop and Subway Sandwich Shop.

One person has been arrested and another suspect remains at large. According to police spokeswoman Dina Bettineschi, several victims were taken to a children's hospital.

Videos posted on Twitter show ambulances treating several victims. Their terms remain unclear at this stage.

Police are continuing their investigation into the shooting. Photo: South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Elvy Carlton Scott III said he heard gunshots while on the beach. He hid behind a tree and then fled after a police officer told people to run.

Witness Jamie Ward said several young men were fighting in front of the shops when one of them drew a gun and started shooting.< /p>

Police have stated that there will be many police officers during the investigation. Officials have also set up a family reunion space.

After Memorial Day weekend in the United States, more than a dozen people were killed in shootings in the United States.

Hollywood Beach This popular beach destination is about 11 miles south of Fort Lauderdale and 20 miles north of Miami.

The beach was overcrowded with visitors more than usual due to the Memorial Day holiday.

Hollywood Mayor Josh Levy said in a statement: “Thank you to the Good Samaritans, paramedics, doctors and emergency room nurses for their immediate response to help today's victims. shooting"