5 shots, including a child, during the Bacchus parade in New Orleans.

Five people, including a child, were shot dead when a gunman opened fire during the Creve Bacchus parade in New Orleans on Sunday — two days before hundreds of revelers gather in the city to celebrate Mardi Gras.

Shots rang out on Terpsichore Street around 9:30 p.m. as the parade was in progress, New Orleans Deputy Police Chief Hans Gantier told reporters during a press conference taped by WDSU.

Three men, a woman and a young girl were hit by bullets. All five were taken to local hospitals. The girl was in a stable condition on Sunday evening, Gantier said.

One of the victims is in critical condition.

“It’s really not something we’d like to see,” Gantier said. “We really wanted it to be a safe Mardi Gras.”

Police detained one suspect shortly thereafter and seized two pistols on the spot, the chief said.

“We were able to quickly apprehend a suspect who we believe is responsible,” Gantier said.

Police are investigating whether a second shooter was at the scene and are urging any witnesses to call the crime line.

One witness told WWL-TV that they heard at least a dozen gunshots, causing panic among parade watchers who tried to run away from the gunfire.

He said that prior to the shooting, police had been breaking up several skirmishes in the same area.

The Krewe of Bacchus Parade has been held annually on the Sunday before Fat Tuesday in New Orleans since the 1960s. The carnival-style procession includes large colorful floats and is led by a national celebrity who acts as the king of the parade.