Clinton, Louisiana — A joyful Mardi Gras celebration turned into a scene of fear and chaos Saturday when five people, including a six-year-old child, were shot during the 21st annual “Mardi Gras in the Country” parade in Clinton.

According to East Feliciana Parish Sheriff Jeff Travis, the shooting occurred shortly after the parade began. What started as a festive gathering filled with music, floats, and families quickly descended into panic as gunfire erupted near the parade route. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, and authorities immediately shut down the event to secure the area and provide medical aid to the injured.

Sheriff Travis told WAFB reporter Chris Nakamoto that the parade had “just started to roll” when shots rang out. Law enforcement officers worked swiftly to control the situation while medical teams treated victims and transported them for further care. Officials have not yet released details regarding the victims’ conditions.

Authorities confirmed that four suspects were taken into custody in connection with the shooting. Investigators are continuing to determine what led to the violence, and no motive has been publicly disclosed at this time.

The involvement of a young child among the injured has deeply shaken the Clinton community. Residents expressed disbelief that an event meant to bring people together could become the site of such violence. For many families, Mardi Gras parades are a treasured tradition, symbolizing joy, culture, and community spirit.