Police responded to shooting reports in Galveston’s West End. The beaches were packed with Houston students.
HOUSTON — Police responded to reports of shots fired on crowded beaches Friday afternoon.
It happened in the West End, where hundreds of students have gathered for “Senior Skip Day.”
A spokesperson with the Galveston Police Department said a gun was recovered from the scene, but no one was struck. Six people were arrested. Their identities, ages and charges were not immediately released.
Officers closed beach access points at 11 Mile Road Beach, 13 Mile Road Beach, Sunny Beach and Hershey Beach. They were later reopened.
Galveston police reported that Houston ISD students packed the region.
Air 11 showed law enforcement officers along the beach.
Before the shooting incident, residents reported gridlock on the island because of “Senior Skip Day.” The City of Galveston said traffic was backed up from 71st Street to Jamaica Beach.
Police have been out in force in Jamaica Beach and other areas of the island.
“We’re just making sure the kids are behaving and having a good time but being safe about it,” Jamaica Beach City Administrator Kendal Francis told the Galveston Daily News Friday morning.
Large crowds are expected on the island over the next couple of weekends because of spring break. The Galveston County Sheriff’s Office coordinated with Galveston police on patrols for the large crowds.
This is a developing story. Additional details will be added as they are learned.