STANLY CO., N.C. -- A 9-year-old boy was shot and killed when he was struck by a stray bullet at a church event.

The Camp Meeting is held once a year at the AME Zion Church in Cottonville, which is in Stanly County. Organizers said it's typically a family event, but when more than 2,000 people showed up late Saturday, things got out of control.

Onlookers said several fights broke out and one of those fights ended in gunfire just after midnight Sunday.

"There was some more commotion, then I heard gunshots and I was just gone. We just ran," said Kristy Davis.

Stanly County sheriff's deputies say the 9-year-old, who's name hasn't been released, was hiding behind a food vendor stand when he was shot.

Authorities said the boy is from Wadesboro.

Deputies said there have identified several persons of interest and suspects, but have not made any arrests. Investigators said the bullet came from a .38-caliber gun.

Many people at the event said they would have liked to see more security or metal detectors. Organizers of the event said they'll make considerations for changes next year.

If you have any information about the shooting, call the Stanly County Sheriff's Office at 704-982-0711.