Philadelphia sports match erupts in gunfire as players race for safety

A chaotic scene unfolded at Temple's Howarth Field in South Philadelphia on Friday as players and coaches scrambled to escape danger.

During Saint Louis University's field hockey game against La Salle with just under 11 minutes to play in the fourth quarter, there was a break in the action with players on both sides getting ready. As they waited, cameras caught the players turning around toward the other side of the field .

Within moments, players and coaches began to sprint for cover, dropping their equipment in the process. Some players ran into an open garage while others sprinted behind a brick wall as shots rang out.

• Vancouver Canucks forward Dakota Joshua bravely announces cancer diagnosis
• Alleged drunk driver accused of killing Johnny Gaudreau and his brother weeps as he's denied bail

Once the situation had become more stable, Saint Louis University's Field Hockey X account provided an update, clarifying that there were no injuries. "Today's match at La Salle has been called due to a shooting in the vicinity of the field," the post read . "Everyone is safe."

Additionally, Saint Louis University's website did not elect to add more information regarding the incident, calling the shooting a "disturbance." "The match was halted in the fourth quarter due to a disturbance in the vicinity of the field," the post on the school's website said. "SLU student-athletes and staff are safe."

In the same vein, La Salle's field hockey team released a statement of its own regarding the incident. On its X account, the hockey team revealed that it would be provided services to those affected by the shooting and would be providing more information to the proper officials.

"Today's field hockey match against Saint Louis was halted in the fourth-quarter due to shots being fired near the playing field," the update began. "Players, coaches, spectators, and game officials, are all safe. We are providing support for our players and staff."

La Salle was playing in its home opener after falling to Temple on the road. Coming into the game, the Explorers had a 5-3 record, winning their first five games before being mired in a three-game losing streak.

Additionally, the Explorers were held scoreless in the last three games though La Salle had the advantage heading into its matchup with Saint Louis. All-time, the Explorers have a 14-3 series lead over the Billikens and have been on a four-game winning streak against Saint Louis.

READ MORE: Johnny Gaudreau's wife heartbreakingly announces pregnancy at late NHL star's funeral

READ MORE: LeBron James devastated by death of Johnny Gaudreau and sends message to his wife

Moreover, La Salle and Saint Louis' most recent meeting went the Explorers way, thanks to a 6-1 win last season.

When the game was stopped, La Salle was leading Saint Louis University 1-0, thanks to a goal from Roos Pasveer. Also, because the game had surpassed 48 minutes, the game was ruled over in accordance to NCAA rules.