Police Say Social Media Party Was Not Permitted as Shots Fired Reports Flood 911
Approximately 23 people injured, several with gunshot wounds, in shooting at unsanctioned party at Arcadia Lake near Scissortail Campground in Edmond,
A night of music and gathering at Arcadia Lake turned violent Sunday when sudden gunfire erupted during a large unsanctioned party, leaving nearly two dozen people injured. The Edmond Police Department is actively investigating the mass shooting that occurred just after 9 p.m. on May 3 near the popular Scissortail Campground. The shocking incident has deeply shaken the Edmond community and prompted a major multi-agency emergency response across the entire area.
According to police, the party began after dark and was heavily advertised across multiple social media platforms, drawing a large, uncontrolled crowd of young adults from across the Oklahoma City metro area. The event was not permitted or officially reserved through the city, meaning there was no official security, lighting, medical staff, or crowd control in place when hundreds gathered near the dark lakeside shoreline.
Responding officers arrived within minutes after multiple frantic 911 calls reported shots fired near the water. They located numerous individuals with injuries ranging widely in severity, including multiple gunshot wounds. At this time, approximately 23 people have been identified as injured. Several victims were transported to area hospitals by ambulance, while additional individuals sought treatment on their own later that night.
Investigators have not released specific details about the number of shooters, possible motives, or the types of firearms used in the chaotic attack. Police say they are actively working the case, collecting shell casings, reviewing extensive cell phone video, and interviewing dozens of terrified witnesses who were at the crowded lakeside gathering. No suspect information is being released at this time.
Edmond police emphasized that there is currently no reason to believe there is an ongoing threat to the general public, but they have significantly increased patrols around Arcadia Lake and other popular gathering spots. The department is coordinating closely with the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office and other regional agencies as they process a complex, sprawling crime scene spanning a large outdoor area.
The shooting starkly highlights the serious dangers of unsanctioned large gatherings promoted online without permits or comprehensive safety plans. Officials note that such events often lack emergency access routes, adequate lighting, trained security personnel, and medical support, making it extremely difficult for first responders to quickly locate victims and secure the scene when violence suddenly erupts.
Hospital officials have not released the specific conditions of those injured, citing strict federal privacy laws, but police confirmed injuries ranged from minor graze wounds to serious, life-threatening trauma requiring surgery. Anxious family members gathered at local hospitals overnight seeking information, while community leaders called for calm, prayer, and full cooperation with investigators.
Anyone with information, photos, or video from the Arcadia Lake party is strongly urged to contact the Edmond Police Department at (405) 359-4338 immediately. As the detailed investigation continues, authorities are asking the public to avoid speculation and dangerous social media rumors and allow detectives to follow evidence-based leads. The traumatized local community now faces a long emotional recovery after a night meant for celebration ended in chaos and injury.