Two killed in shooting in downtown Bismarck parking lot
BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) - Two men were killed after an exchange of gunfire in a downtown Bismarck parking lot early Saturday morning, according to Bismarck Police.
The department said officers responded to a shots fired call around 12:30 Saturday morning in the parking lot located at 115 S 5th Street. The address matches that of The Elbow Room bar in Bismarck.
Investigators said two officers were in the area and could hear the gunfire as well and immediately responded.
Officers found 21-year-old Victor King, of Mandan, and 35-year-old Jesus Vera-Leon, of Bismarck, with gunshot wounds. The men were pronounced dead at an area hospital.
The Elbow Room & Roundhouse posted to its Facebook page with the following message to its patrons:
“Last night we were faced with an unfortunate event that took place outside our bar during the late hours. Our condolences go out to the families and friends affected by the actions that took the lives of two. We thank the Bismarck Police Department as well as our bar’s security staff for acting quick in such a frightening time. Their actions kept our staff and our patrons safe and prevented further injuries. Thank you bar staff for acting as fast as possible to protect the people around us. Lastly, thank you everyone for remaining calm even as times got scary. Things may be a blur but you followed directions to find safety and that’s all we could ask for. That being said, business will continue as usual. Please be mindful of the people around you as nobody should face something like this, and many are still trying to process.”
The Investigations Division of the Bismarck Police Department responded to the scene and began an investigation. They are currently looking through video of the incident and have interviewed numerous witnesses. The investigation is ongoing and they are requesting information from the public who witnessed the incident and have not talked with police.
If you witnessed the incident, please contact the Bismarck Police Department at (701) 223-1212 and ask for the investigation section or, anonymously by downloading the Bismarck Police Department app, clicking here or texting BISPD and your tip to 847411.
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