In brief
On Thursday, a shooting at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge resulted from a confrontation between two groups, injuring 10 individuals. Police are seeking witnesses as officials assure there’s no ongoing threat to the public. This incident marks the second major gun violence event in Louisiana this week.
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — At least 10 people were injured Thursday when two groups exchanged gunfire inside the food court at the Mall of Louisiana. According to local police, the incident unfolded during an argument that escalated to violence. Some suspects fled the scene before authorities arrived, and no one has been arrested yet.Baton Rouge Mayor Sid Edwards condemned the violence, stating, “To the thugs that did this, we’re going to catch you.” Police Chief TJ Morse reported that among the injured, several victims were innocent bystanders who caught stray bullets. Authorities are appealing for any eyewitnesses to come forward with video footage of the incident.At least two of the injured were reported to need surgical treatment, while the remaining victims sustained various injuries and were taken to local hospitals. Chief Morse reassured the public that there is no current threat, claiming, “Right here is the safest place in Baton Rouge.”Additionally, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry was made aware of the situation and advised the public to steer clear of the area. Eyewitness Nikki Lee described the scene, having arrived immediately after the shooting, noting a significant police presence and a helicopter responding to the unfolding crisis.This violent event represents the second instance of gun-related incidents in Louisiana within the week, following a tragic shooting where a father fatally shot eight children in Shreveport, heightening concerns over gun violence in the state.
