KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Knoxville Police Department is continuing its investigation after a man was shot in Krutch Park Saturday night.
At around 9:40 p.m., officers responded to Market Square in regards to a shooting with a victim.
The victim was taken to UT Medical Center for treatment on Saturday. KPD originally reported the victim's injuries were believed to be non-life-threatening. As of Sunday morning, the victim is in critical but stable condition.
Based on the investigation so far, officials believe the victim was shot in Krutch Park after a brief verbal argument involving multiple unidentified individuals.
Multiple people were seen running from the area. KPD said they might have been juveniles.
Knoxville Police Chief Paul Noel made a statement on the shooting Sunday morning below:
"Last night's shooting in Krutch Park was deeply unsettling and completely unacceptable. Residents and visitors should feel, and more importantly, be safe in downtown Knoxville.
Detectives and officers are working vigorously, around the clock to identify, locate and capture the suspects. Moving forward, we will have a significant, robust presence in downtown Knoxville through the remainder of the holidays. Officers will be clearly visible both walking and in patrol cruisers.
The Knoxville Police Department is relentlessly committed to keeping all sectors of our community safe and removing the violent, remorseless individuals who threaten to compromise that safety. We will work unfailingly to ensure downtown remains safe and inviting at all times."
As of Sunday morning, KPD said "multiple persons of interest have been identified in the course of the investigation." However, efforts are ongoing to find the identified persons of interest.
Detectives believe that this was an isolated incident and there is no known evidence of continued violence.
Anyone with information regarding the shooting is asked to contact East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers at 865-215-7165. Tipsters can remain anonymous and be eligible to receive a cash reward.