The police described the incident as a 'critical incident' and are actively conducting an investigation, interviewing witnesses, and gathering evidence.

A GoFundMe page for one of the victims, Timothy Schmidt, has raised over $37,000 to cover funeral expenses, highlighting his character as a caring friend and talented soccer player.

A 17-year-old male suspect has been taken into custody; he was previously arrested for grand theft earlier this year.

In response to the violence, Mayor Dyer declared a local state of emergency, enforcing a midnight cutoff for alcohol sales and a curfew from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. for the next week.

Orlando police are investigating two overnight shootings that occurred during Halloween celebrations downtown, resulting in two deaths and six injuries.

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer expressed frustration over the violence, linking it to recent changes in state concealed weapon laws that have made it easier for individuals to carry firearms.

The shootings raised concerns about safety during large public events, particularly in light of new Florida laws that allow permit-less concealed carry, limiting police capabilities to screen for weapons.

Chief Smith confirmed that police officers did not discharge their weapons during the incident, and footage shows officers tackling the suspect while crowds fled.

Witnesses described chaotic scenes as gunfire erupted, with many revelers fleeing in panic, while police responded quickly to apprehend the suspect.

State Attorney Andrew Bain is considering charging the suspect as an adult due to the severity of the crime and the number of victims involved.

The situation remains fluid, with further updates expected as the investigation continues.

This incident marks another tragic event for Orlando, which has a painful history of gun violence, notably the Pulse nightclub massacre in 2016.