panic and terror’ of deadly Halloween celebration shooting

A night of Halloween festivities in downtown Orlando turned deadly early Friday when a shooting erupted, leaving partygoers in fear for their lives. A 17-year-old, identified as Jaylen Dwayne Edgar, allegedly opened fire on a crowded street, sending costumed revelers scrambling for safety. The scene quickly shifted from celebration to chaos as people fled, sought refuge in nearby businesses, and some huddled in the lobby of the Mondrian apartments, a high-rise complex that opened its doors to those seeking shelter.

Joey Herrera, 22, who was at the Halloween gathering with friends, shared the terror he felt during the ordeal. “It was the most scared I’ve ever been,” he said, describing his fear of being caught in the gunfire. Witnesses reported the harrowing experience as one of “chaos, panic, and terror,” while video footage released by the Orlando Police Department captured Edgar walking through the streets moments before shots were fired.

In the aftermath, Orlando Police Chief Eric Smith reflected on the challenges law enforcement faces under Florida’s new constitutional carry law, which permits individuals to carry weapons in public spaces without prior restrictions. Smith expressed the need for alternative safety measures, noting the law now limits police from using techniques like street closures and police dogs to secure the area.

As authorities investigate, a motive has not yet been identified, and the victims’ identities remain undisclosed. This tragic incident has stirred conversations on public safety, particularly around the impact of gun laws in large gatherings.