A daytime Mardi Gras celebration turned into chaos Saturday afternoon when gunfire erupted near the East Feliciana Parish Courthouse during the annual Mardi Gras in the Country Parade, leaving six people wounded, including a child, local authorities said.

The incident unfolded shortly after the parade began, sending attendees running for cover as shots rang out along the crowded route. Sheriff’s deputies and emergency medical personnel rushed to the scene to treat those struck by gunfire.

Among the injured was a child who was reported to be in critical condition.

Five others also suffered gunshot wounds and were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.

In the immediate aftermath, law enforcement detained at least one suspect, and investigators were actively searching for an associated vehicle believed to be connected to the shooting. 

Officials have not yet released details on a possible motive or confirmed the exact number of shooters involved.