PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Officials in Kansas City say one person was killed and more than 20 were injured by gunfire on Wednesday after the Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory parade. The manager of a South Philadelphia bar dedicated to Chiefs fans says their hearts are broken.
At the corner of 11th and McKean streets, Big Charlie’s Saloon has been a haven for Chiefs fans for years in the middle of Eagles territory. On Sunday, the bar was the scene of a party after Kansas City won its second Super Bowl in as many years.
“We've been on a cloud, until today,” said Laura Sessa, manager.
Sessa said she and bar patrons were all watching the parade live on TV at Big Charlie’s on Wednesday when news of the fatal shooting broke.
“My jaw dropped. Pure devastation,” she said. “It was a beautiful day. We were all in there watching the parade together. And then the news breaks and everything was destroyed.”
Last year, Sessa said, she traveled to Kansas City with a group of fans to experience the parade and celebration in person. They decided to stay home for this one, but she said her heart is broken for all of Kansas City.
“This shouldn't happen anywhere, anytime,” she said. “Should never be accepted and should never be allowed. Innocent people being hurt should never be tolerated.”
Her message to Chiefs Kingdom: “We love you. Our prayers are with you. Stay strong. And we'll keep praying for you guys.”