A series of gunshots led to a lockdown at the Mall of America in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Thursday.
The shooting took place with no one injured or killed, according to authorities.
The Mall of America was placed on lockdown Thursday evening after shots were fired in what police called an “isolated incident.” https://t.co/Gh5WQLOjZR
— CBS Mornings (@CBSMornings) August 5, 2022
The situation
“An altercation started inside a Nike store when two groups started arguing, Bloomington Police Chief Booker Hodges said in an evening press conference, adding that one group was exiting the store when one person turned around and fired three shots at the other group,” the Washington Examiner reported.
“No one appears to have been injured in the shooting, Hodges said,” it added.
Nothing more American then a back to school shooting at the mall of America. Pray for this state. pic.twitter.com/BqkkGnU0DW
— Tyler (@TylerReide) August 4, 2022
A celebrity connection
NASCAR driver Kyle Busch and his family were reportedly shopping at the mall when the shooting occurred.
“If you are seeing the news about the [Mall of America], we got out and are safe,” Busch’s wife shared on her Instagram story. “Praying others inside are too.”
NASCAR driver Kyle Busch, family escape shooting at Mall of America in Minnesota; no injuries reported https://t.co/Goquar11vx
— 🏀DFBR: 14,101-5,344-514 (@KingFitch_H19) August 5, 2022
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz released a statement condemning the violence.
“Tonight’s violence at the Mall of America is unacceptable. These brazen incidents will not be tolerated,” he tweeted.
Tonight’s violence at the Mall of America is unacceptable. These brazen incidents will not be tolerated.
State resources are on the scene, we have offered our full support, and we will stay in close contact with Bloomington police to apprehend those responsible.
— Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) August 5, 2022
The shooter fled and is still at large as the nation marks yet another public shooting.