HIGHLAND PARK, IL (WSAU-WAOW) — A Stevens Point-based rock band competing in a battle of the bands event in Highland Park is safe after Monday’s shooting.
WAOW TV reports that members of Scorched Waves were competing in the Bitter Jester Festival near where the parade was happening. Organizers of the festival quickly got everyone under bleachers and away from possible danger.
Band members say the events have shaken them deeply. “I didn’t know what to do, it was just shocking.” said Guitarist Tyler Armstrong.
A friend of the band, Max Beardsley, was taking in the parade when the gunfire started. “At first, I thought they were fireworks, but as soon as I saw people start to run, at that point it was just go.” said Beardsley, “It was honestly just like instincts just kicked in.”
“To have people so close to you be there, it’s terrifying.” said bassist Al Vuorinen.
Everyone traveling with the band was able to make it back to their hotel safely. The Bitter Jester Festival has been postponed until further notice.
