Gunfire Erupts Outside Kennywood Park: Two Shot, Panic Ensues During Crowded Saturday Night

WEST MIFFLIN, PA — A peaceful summer evening turned into a night of fear and confusion on Saturday, June 7, 2025, as gunfire erupted near the grounds of Kennywood Park, a beloved amusement destination in the Pittsburgh suburb of West Mifflin. The incident prompted a swift and large-scale police response and sent waves of panic through the park and surrounding neighborhoods.

According to the West Mifflin Police Department, officers were dispatched just after 9:15 p.m. following multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired near the main entrance of Kennywood Park, located on Kennywood Boulevard. Witnesses described hearing a sudden burst of gunshots, followed by screams and a chaotic rush of people attempting to flee the area. Initial reports indicated that the shooting may have taken place just outside the park’s gates, near the entrance plaza where families had been arriving and departing.

Police confirmed that at least two individuals were struck by gunfire. One of the victims, a 17-year-old male from nearby Duquesne, was transported to a local hospital in stable condition with a gunshot wound to the leg. The second victim, a 20-year-old man, was also hospitalized, but his condition has not yet been disclosed. Authorities have not yet released the names of the victims, pending family notification.

The shooter—or shooters—remained at large as of Sunday morning, and investigators are actively reviewing surveillance footage from the park and surrounding businesses. Witnesses at the scene reported seeing a dark-colored sedan speed away from the area moments after the gunfire erupted. It is unclear at this time whether the incident was a targeted attack or a random act of violence.

“While this was a frightening incident for everyone involved, we want to stress that our officers and emergency responders acted quickly and effectively,” said West Mifflin Police Chief Michael Hill during a midnight press briefing. “We are working closely with county detectives and the management of Kennywood to ensure public safety and to identify those responsible.”

Park officials issued a statement shortly after the incident, confirming that the park was placed on lockdown temporarily as a precaution and that all guests were safely evacuated with assistance from law enforcement. The statement emphasized that the shooting occurred outside of the park and not on its premises, though the impact was immediately felt within.

“Our hearts go out to the victims and all those affected by this traumatic event,” the statement read. “Kennywood is committed to being a safe and joyful place for families, and we will be reviewing all safety protocols in light of this situation.”

Social media quickly filled with firsthand accounts of the panic, as parents posted frantic messages trying to locate children, and videos showed crowds running through the parking lot. One eyewitness, 19-year-old Morgan Bennett of McKeesport, said she had just exited the park when she heard the shots.

“It was like four or five pops in a row,” Bennett said. “Then everyone started screaming and ducking behind cars. We didn’t know where to run.”

Another visitor, Christopher James, who was at the park with his two children, praised the calm and professional response from park staff.

“They got us into a building and told us to stay put,” James recalled. “The kids were scared, but the staff were amazing. They kept checking in and gave us water while we waited for the all-clear.”

As of Sunday morning, no arrests have been made. Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or may have video footage from around 9:00 to 9:30 p.m. near Kennywood’s entrance to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the West Mifflin Police Department tip line or Crime Stoppers.

This is not the first time that violence has disrupted the tranquil reputation of Kennywood. In September 2022, a separate shooting occurred inside the park during its annual Phantom Fall Fest event, resulting in multiple injuries and renewed discussions about security.

Now, in the wake of this latest incident, community members and park officials are again grappling with the balance between maintaining a fun-filled environment and ensuring public safety.

West Mifflin Mayor Chris Kelly addressed residents on Sunday morning.

“This kind of violence has no place in our community, especially in spaces meant for families and fun,” Mayor Kelly said. “We are doing everything in our power to support the victims and bring those responsible to justice.”

Kennywood Park remained closed on Sunday as police continued their investigation and park management reviewed internal safety protocols. Park officials have not yet said when the park will reopen.

Anyone with information related to the shooting is encouraged to contact the Allegheny County Police Department or submit tips online.

As the investigation continues, the West Mifflin community is left reeling from a night that began with laughter and ended in sirens, fear, and unanswered questions.