Shooting Inside Mall of Louisiana Food Court Leaves 10 Hurt, 2 Critical
A shooting inside the food court at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge left 10 people hurt Thursday afternoon, with two of the victims in critical condition, police confirmed. The shooting happened around 1:22 p.m. and set off a rapid law enforcement response that resulted in the full evacuation of the mall.
Two Groups Opened Fire on Each Other in the Food Court
Baton Rouge Police Chief TJ Morse said the shooting was not a random act of violence. According to Morse, two groups of people got into an argument inside the food court and then began shooting at each other. Bystanders caught in the middle were not spared. "Unfortunately, there were some innocent people that were in the area that might have also caught some rounds," Morse said.
EMS transported six victims to the hospital. Additional victims arrived at medical facilities in personal vehicles. Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, which received several of the wounded, placed the facility on secured access and asked visitors to stay away. Some of the injured are undergoing surgery.
The Shooter Is Still at Large
As of Thursday afternoon, police said the shooter remains at large. Investigators are working to identify those responsible. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 225-344-7867. The attack follows a pattern of violent altercations that have escalated to deadly force in public spaces across the country in recent months.
Officials Respond as Mall Is Evacuated
EBR Mayor-President Sid Edwards confirmed he was on scene shortly after the shooting, saying all civilians had been safely escorted out. Governor Jeff Landry issued a statement saying he was in coordination with law enforcement and urged the public to avoid the area. Attorney General Liz Murrill confirmed that multiple law enforcement agencies were responding.
What Happens Now
Police said there is no ongoing threat to the public at this time. The investigation is active. Hospitals in the area remain on elevated alert. Families seeking information about victims were directed to the main entrance of Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center.
The Mall of Louisiana, one of the largest shopping centers in Baton Rouge, drew thousands of visitors on a typical weekday afternoon. Thursday was not a typical afternoon. In recent weeks alone, a string of brazen crimes in public spaces has raised questions about safety in places Americans once considered routine.
This is a developing story. Additional details will be updated as they become available from law enforcement.
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