At least two people were injured after a gunman opened fire at Westfield Valley Fair Mall in Silicon Valley on Black Friday.
Shoppers ran for cover as chaos erupted just after 6 pm local time in West San Jose, California, police said.
The two victims were taken to the hospital with gunshot wounds. Their current condition has not been disclosed.
Police urged the public to stay away from the mall as officers investigated the incident.
By 6:30 pm, authorities said the situation was no longer active and appeared to be an isolated event.
Officers continued clearing the mall, assuring residents there was “no ongoing threat to public safety.”
Witnesses described being trapped inside stores during the lockdown. Many took to social media to recount the panic.
Video from the scene showed terrified shoppers fleeing as officers moved through the mall.
Authorities have not released information about a suspect or a motive. The investigation remains active.
Westfield Valley Fair Mall is one of Silicon Valley’s busiest shopping centers, especially on Black Friday.
The shooting comes amid a nationwide surge of mass shootings in retail spaces and public areas, as the Daily Mail reported.
Police said they are reviewing security footage and interviewing witnesses to determine the events leading up to the shooting.
Local officials emphasized that the community’s safety is the top priority and urged anyone with information to come forward.
“This is a tragic incident,” a police spokesperson said. “We are committed to identifying the suspect and ensuring the safety of everyone in our community.”
Residents expressed shock on social media, with many noting the rapid escalation of violence during what is supposed to be a holiday shopping day.
Security measures at the mall are now under review. Officials said more officers will be deployed to ensure safety during the busy holiday weekend.
Investigators are looking into whether the gunman had ties to the area or any criminal history. Police did not disclose whether the suspect is in custody.
Emergency responders praised the mall staff for quickly implementing lockdown procedures, helping prevent further injuries.
Shoppers described screaming and confusion as they ducked behind racks and counters while waiting for authorities to arrive.
Authorities have asked anyone who captured video or images of the suspect to submit them to help with the investigation.
Witnesses said the sound of gunfire was loud and sudden, triggering mass panic across multiple levels of the mall.
West San Jose police continue to coordinate with federal authorities to determine whether this was a targeted attack or a random act of violence.
The incident has prompted city officials to issue reminders about emergency protocols in crowded public spaces.
Officials also warned businesses to review their security systems and evacuation plans in light of the shooting.
This Black Friday shooting marks one of the latest in a troubling trend of violence in California’s retail centers, putting shoppers and staff on high alert.
Authorities pledged updates as soon as more information is available and emphasized the importance of public vigilance.
