A shooting inside Maplewood Mall in Maplewood, Minnesota, Sunday afternoon triggered a heavy police response, left one adult male hospitalized, and resulted in two juvenile suspects being taken into custody. Authorities say the suspected shooter remains at large as the investigation continues.
Shooting Inside Mall Sparks Major Police Response
According to the Maplewood Police Department, the shooting occurred near one of the mall’s entrances and reportedly stemmed from a fight. Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the scene shortly after the incident was reported.
Police confirmed that an adult male was shot in the hip and transported to a nearby hospital. His injuries are described as non-life-threatening. Emergency crews were seen loading the victim into an ambulance shortly before 2:30 p.m.
Investigators have since cleared the scene, and authorities say there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Two Juveniles Arrested, Suspected Shooter Still at Large
Two individuals have been taken into custody and booked into the Ramsey County Jail on suspicion of third-degree riot. Authorities identified them as juveniles but have not released further details about their identities.
However, police confirmed that the suspected shooter has not yet been apprehended. Officers continue to search for the individual and are asking anyone with information to come forward.
Officials have not released details about what led to the initial altercation or whether the parties involved knew each other.
Eyewitness Describes Chaotic Moments Inside Mall
Miranda Klein, a mall employee, described the confusion and panic that unfolded moments before the gunshot was heard.
“Then the customer told me there was fighting happening in the bathroom from a bunch of high school kids. And that’s right when we heard the shot. Of course, at first everybody was just confused. You can’t really process what happened until after it happens,” Klein said.
Shoppers and employees were left shaken as law enforcement secured the building and began investigating.
Mall Closed Sunday, Expected to Reopen Monday
Authorities announced that Maplewood Mall would remain closed for the rest of Sunday as investigators worked the scene and ensured the area was safe. The mall is expected to reopen Monday.
Officials reassured the public that there is currently no ongoing danger connected to the incident. Additional security measures may be reviewed as part of the response.
Investigation Ongoing
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fight and shooting. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to determine exactly how the situation escalated.
Further updates are expected as the search for the suspected shooter continues and formal charges are reviewed.
