At least 10 people were injured in a horrific shooting at the Mall of Louisiana. Two of the injured are in critical condition, according to Baton Rouge police.
Police Chief TJ Morse has ruled out any threats against the public at this time; however, the shooter is still at large. He added that the incident was not a random act of violence.
Morse said, “Unfortunately, there were some innocent people in the area who might have caught a few bullets as well.”
Initial investigation reveals that an argument between two groups of people sitting inside the food court escalated to the point where they opened fire on each other.
Approximately six victims were transported to hospital by emergency services while the others were treated in their personal vehicles. Some of the injured were undergoing surgery.
Agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) were also present at the scene.
East Baton Rogue Mayor-President Sid Edwards was also at the scene. He said all civilians had been evicted from the building. He asked the public to “keep the victims and their families in your prayers.”
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry also released a statement saying, “I am aware of an active shooter program at the Louisiana Mall. ” He urged the public to avoid the area, adding: “Sharon and I are praying for those affected.”
He also praised law enforcement for their quick response to the incident.
The incident comes just hours after police arrested a man on his way to Louisiana, apparently with the intention of carrying out a mass shooting at a festival in New Orleans.
