Surge In Shooting Victims Causes Chaos Outside Stroger Hospital

CHICAGO, IL — A heartbreaking scene unfolded Sunday morning outside Stroger Hospital, where friends and family of shooting victims gathered. Hospital staff were busy dealing with trauma patients after an influx of overnight shootings, and the hospital had to limit visitation to only immediate family members so staff could focus on patient care, a hospital spokesperson said. Dozens gathered outside the emergency room doors to hear word of what happened to their loved ones.

A video of the scene outside the hospital shows friends and family members screaming and crying. One woman collapses on the ground, and others try to help her to her feet. Police officers were deployed to the scene to ensure people's safety.

Police said 30 people were shot in a three-hour span early Sunday morning. The final weekend tally: 12 dead, 66 wounded.

There were reports circulating that Stroger Hospital would be placed on lockdown to deal with the influx of trauma patients; however the hospital and police said the trauma unit didn't go on lockdown at any time over the weekend.

Chicago hospitals were also busy dealing with 119 people who were hospitalized during Lollapalooza over the weekend. Many of the concert-goers were suffering from heat-related illnesses.

Top image/video via YouTube