2 Injured at Ford Fireworks Shooting as Residents Discuss Public Safety Plan

June 24, 2025

Detroit's 67th annual Ford Fireworks show was marred by a shooting incident that injured two people near Spirit Plaza and Hart Plaza. Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison reported that the non-life-threatening injuries to a juvenile male and female in their 20s resulted from a fight that broke out about a block away from the festivities. The city's policy of closing riverfront parks during the fireworks for safety reasons has sparked debate among residents about whether these closures effectively enhance public safety.

Who is affected

Two shooting victims (a juvenile male and a female in her 20s)
Residents living near closed parks along the riverfront
Families directed away from public parks
Event attendees at Spirit Plaza and Hart Plaza
Detroit residents who debate the effectiveness of park closures
Public transportation users (Detroit People Mover and QLine riders)

What action is being taken

Police are investigating the shooting with video evidence of suspects
Detroit police are enforcing park closures along the riverfront during the fireworks
Officers are stationed at public parks directing families away
City officials are maintaining the controversial policy of closing parks during the fireworks
Public transportation systems (Detroit People Mover and QLine) are accommodating large crowds for the event

Why it matters

The incident raises ongoing questions about public safety strategies during major city events
The park closure policy creates tension between safety concerns and quality of life for residents
The shooting occurred despite significant police presence, prompting debate about security effectiveness
Public transportation proved vital for event access and evacuation
The fireworks show represents an important annual tradition in Detroit that draws thousands of attendees

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle