A “person of interest” was arrested after the shooting at Don Carter Lanes on East State Street, Rockford police chief Dan O’Shea said during a news conference.
WATCH: Rockford Police Chief Dan O’Shea gives the latest news on shootings
O’Shea said he did not think any officers fired their weapons, but the sniper was active when the police arrived.
Police said a 37-year-old man was in custody in connection with the incident.
Two teenagers were among those affected, said O’Shea, but he did not know their age.
RELATED: Armed Violence Over Chicago Weekend Leaves 12 Shots, 3 Dead Across City
Rockford police asked the public to avoid the area during the following investigation in a tweet around 7:15 pm
Active sniper investigation near Don Carter Lanes on E. State Street. Avoid the area.
– RockfordILPolice (@RockfordPD) December 27, 2020
O’Shea said Rockford police received calls for shots fired at the bowling alley at 6:55 pm.
Republican MP Adam Kinzinger, whose district includes Rockford, tweeted that he was “praying for the victims and their families tonight after the heinous attack on our community.”
Praying for the victims and their families tonight after the heinous attack on our community. As we continue to learn more and hold the responsible party accountable, I would like to thank the @RockfordPD for his quick action in apprehending the suspect. # IL16
– Adam Kinzinger (@RepKinzinger) December 27, 2020
Rockford is about 80 miles northwest of Chicago.
ABC News and Associated Press contributed to this report.
Copyright © 2020 WLS-TV. All rights reserved.