Police are actively pursuing a shooting incident that took place Thursday evening at the Vancouver Mall, killing one person and injuring two more. The shooting occurred Thursday evening at about 7:30 p.m. in the mall’s food court area when the Vancouver Police Department reacted immediately to the incident.
Witnesses said the gunman fired several rounds from an unknown handgun, hitting people not targeted. The injured victims were taken to a local hospital, but their conditions are not known.
Shoppers, including families and mall employees, took shelter in place during the shooting. The police announced that after preliminary combing through the place, there is no present threat in the mall but mentioned that the suspect or suspects are at large. According to Vancouver Police spokesperson, Kim Kapp, detectives have started scrutinizing the mall’s security camera footage that can give the identity of the attacker. The reasons behind the shooting are unknown and so whether the persons targeted the victims or killed them in cold blood for being anyone is also uncertain.
Wearing a black dress and standing nervously, Brianne Stoner told of frightening scenes such as families running their kids out of harm’s way. She said she was trick-or-treating with her family inside the mall when she suddenly heard shots and took shelter immediately. Added to this was Vladdy Mrushenko, a witness, who jumped from the second floor to get away.
Anyone with information, or footage, of the incident is asked to call the Vancouver Police Department’s tip line at 360-487-7399. A reunification area has been set up near the Hobby Lobby, outside the entrance, for those separated during the incident.
To Read More: Global