A violent incident at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge has resulted in two people sustaining critical injuries and multiple others being wounded. The Baton Rouge Police Department reported that ten individuals were hurt during the altercation, prompting a swift lockdown of the area by law enforcement officers. Some of the victims are currently undergoing medical procedures following the shooting, which occurred near the shopping center’s food court around 1:25pm local time. Emergency responders have restricted access to the mall for urgent purposes only.
Chief TJ Morse stated that the public is not in danger at present and clarified that the shooting stemmed from a dispute between two groups that escalated into violence. Unfortunately, innocent bystanders in the vicinity may have been unintentionally affected, Morse mentioned.
Mayor-president Sid Edwards of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, confirmed his presence at the scene, where a command post has been established. He informed the public about the shooting incident with multiple casualties, assuring that all civilians have been safely evacuated from the mall. Edwards urged everyone to keep the victims and their families in their thoughts and prayers, while also vowing to apprehend the perpetrators responsible for the violence.
Our Lady of the Lake Hospital, located nearby, issued a statement advising visitors and guests to avoid coming to the facility in light of the ongoing situation. The hospital requested family members to gather at the main entrance of Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center for updates, emphasizing restricted access to the premises for security reasons. Emergency rooms at the facility will remain operational, with further updates to follow as the circumstances progress.
Governor Jeff Landry acknowledged the active shooter situation at the Mall of Louisiana and urged people to steer clear of the area. He expressed his concern for those affected and commended the prompt response of law enforcement authorities.
Additionally, Attorney General Liz Murrill mentioned that District Attorney Hillar Moore is closely monitoring the discharge of weapons in the Food Court at the mall. Multiple law enforcement agencies are actively responding, and the public is advised to avoid the area for safety reasons. Further details on the incident will be provided as they become available.