Mall Shooting Leaves One Dead and Five Injured as Shoppers Flee in Terror

A chaotic scene unfolded at a Louisiana mall after gunfire erupted in the middle of the day, leaving one person dead and several others injured.

The shooting happened on April 23 at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge, sending shoppers running for safety as police rushed to the scene.

Authorities say the violence appears to have started as a fight between two groups that quickly escalated. According to Police Chief Thomas Morse, one person later died at a hospital, while five others were injured. One victim underwent surgery, while the others were treated for less serious injuries.

At one point, officials believed as many as 10 people had been hurt, but that number was later revised.

Police have taken five suspects into custody so far and say they are still searching for others who may have been involved.

Investigators say surveillance footage shows two groups arguing before shots were fired. While the incident appears to have been targeted, innocent bystanders were caught in the chaos.

“There were people in the area who were not involved and may have been hit,” Morse said, adding that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

The shooting triggered panic inside the mall. Witnesses described hearing multiple gunshots before crowds began running in every direction. Some shoppers helped the injured, while others rushed to get out as quickly as possible.

Police cars, ambulances, and fire crews flooded the area as authorities urged people to stay away. For a time, officials warned of an active shooter situation as they worked to secure the scene.

Jeff Landry said he was coordinating with law enforcement and asked the public to avoid the area while first responders handled the situation.

Meanwhile, Mayor Sid Edwards vowed that those responsible would be caught.

“We’re going to find them and get them off the streets,” he said, calling the violence unacceptable.