In brief
Two groups exchanged gunfire in the food court of the Mall of Louisiana, injuring ten people, some seriously. Local authorities are investigating the incident as suspects flee the scene. Mayor Sid Edwards vows to bring those responsible to justice, while police Chief TJ Morse assures the public of their safety.
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — At least 10 people were injured Thursday as two groups of people opened fire at each other inside the food court at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge, police said. Some of the individuals responsible fled the scene as a massive police presence arrived to manage the situation. At this time, no suspects are in custody.Baton Rouge Mayor Sid Edwards addressed the incident, stating, “To the thugs that did this, we’re going to catch you.” Police Chief TJ Morse explained that a dispute between the two groups escalated into gunfire, resulting in innocent bystanders being caught in the crossfire.Ten victims have been treated at local hospitals for various injuries, with at least two needing surgical intervention. Chief Morse urged anyone with video footage of the shooting to assist the investigation, emphasizing, “Right now there is no known threat to the public. Right here is the safest place in Baton Rouge.”Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry confirmed his awareness of the shooting and urged the public to steer clear of the vicinity.Witness Nikki Lee described the scene, stating, “I drove up and walked in right after the shooting. There was already a helicopter and already lots of police officers going through the parking lots.”This incident marks the second instance of gun violence in Louisiana within a week. Earlier, a tragic event in Shreveport saw a father fatally shoot eight of his children during a violent outburst in their neighborhood, leaving two women hospitalized, including the mother of the victims.
