Police search for suspects after shots were fired into a crowded store at the Mall of America
By Hannah Sarisohn and Dave Alsup, CNN
Police are searching for suspects after gunshots were fired into a crowded store in the Mall of America on Thursday, authorities said.
“Fortunately, at this time, it doesn’t appear that anyone was injured,” Bloomington Police Department Chief Booker Hodges said at a news conference. The store was “full of people,” he said.
“After reviewing video, we observed two groups get into some type of altercation at the cash register in the Nike store,” Hodges said. “One of the groups left after the altercation, but instead of walking away, they decided to demonstrate a complete lack of respect for human life. They decided to fire multiple rounds into a store with people.”
The suspects, who are described as young adults, fled the scene, according to Hodges, and preliminary information indicates only one person fired three shots.
“Please turn yourself in,” he said. “But should you choose not to, our officers, our partners, our detectives will not stop until we lock you up.”
Two-time NASCAR Cup series champion Kyle Busch and his family safely escaped the shooting, his wife said on Instagram.
Samantha Busch posted about the experience on her Instagram account.
“If you are seeing the news about the @mallofamerica we got out and are safe. Praying others inside are too,” she wrote Thursday afternoon.
Earlier in the day, Busch posted videos of her husband and son riding roller coasters inside the mall.
Police believe Thursday’s shooting is an isolated incident and there is no longer a danger to the public, according to Hodges.
The mall, America’s largest, went into lockdown after the incident, and was later closed for the day, according to Mall of America spokesperson Dan Jasper.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described the shooting as “unacceptable.”
“These brazen incidents will not be tolerated. State resources are on the scene, we have offered our full support, and we will maintain close communication with Bloomington police to apprehend those responsible,” the governor said in a statement.
The mall, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this month, boasts more than 500 stores, Nickelodeon Universe, more than 50 dining options, dozens of attractions and two hotels, according to the owners.
The massive shopping and entertainment complex is located in Bloomington, about 10 miles south of downtown Minneapolis.
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