In brief
In Baton Rouge, Louisiana, a shooting in the food court of the Mall of Louisiana resulted in ten injuries as two groups opened fire on each other. Police are investigating the incident, with authorities appealing for witness information. The situation has raised concerns following a recent increase in gun violence in the state.
BATON ROUGE, La. — At least ten individuals have suffered injuries following a shooting incident at the Mall of Louisiana's food court on Thursday, according to local police. The altercation reportedly involved gunfire exchanged between two groups, leading to chaos and panic among mall patrons.As the situation unfolded, multiple officers were dispatched to the scene, where witnesses described a rapid influx of police along with helicopters circling overhead. Currently, no suspects are in custody as some of those involved fled the scene. Baton Rouge Mayor Sid Edwards denounced the violence, stating, “To the thugs that did this, we’re going to catch you.” Police Chief TJ Morse confirmed that the shooting resulted in multiple injuries among bystanders and asked any witnesses to share video footage of the incident to aid the investigation.Morse specified that ten people were treated at local hospitals, with at least two requiring surgery due to the seriousness of their injuries. He assured the public that there was no ongoing threat, stating, “Right now there is no known threat to the public. Right here is the safest place in Baton Rouge.”In light of the shooting, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry advised residents to avoid the area while investigations were ongoing. There were also reports of people being moved to secure locations within the mall for their safety.This incident marks the second act of gun violence reported in Louisiana within the week, following a tragic event in Shreveport where a father fatally shot eight children, including seven of his own. Two women, including the children's mother, were critically injured during that incident.
