KANSAS CITY, Missouri – A 10-year-old boy shares the terrifying experience of being shot during the Super Bowl parade for the Kansas City Chiefs. Samuel Arellano was one of the 23 people shot during the event, which tragically resulted in the death of one person. The deceased, Lisa Lopez-Galvan, was a 43-year-old mother and a beloved local radio DJ. The boy was open about his pain after being shot in the ribs, expressing how close the bullet came to altering his entire future.
The boy and his family spoke with a local television station, recalling the chaotic scene that unfolded. Samuel was separated from his mother and walking with his grandfather when the gunfire erupted. He detailed how he attempted to protect himself by facing towards his family members, but still ended up getting hit. The family initially didn’t realize he had been shot, as the crowds scattered and Samuel sought refuge behind a trash can.
Following the shooting, the family returned home without realizing Samuel had been injured. It wasn’t until his mother checked under his shirt that they discovered the gunshot wound. The boy was then taken to Children’s Mercy hospital, along with nine other juvenile victims, for treatment.
The trauma from the shooting has left a lasting impact on Samuel and his family. They expressed concerns about the long-term effects of the experience, with Samuel admitting that he anticipates experiencing flashbacks as he looks at the bullet hole on his body.
Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves revealed that most of the surviving victims were under the age of 16, shedding light on the devastating impact the shooting had on the younger members of the community. Additionally, two of the three suspects taken into custody after the incident were also juveniles.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with no charges filed as of yet. The Mayor of Kansas City, Quinton Lucas, expressed profound sadness over the tragic events, emphasizing the impact it will have on the community for years to come.