Yahoo News Idaho shooting: Two people killed and four injured at mall, police say
Two people were killed and four others injured, including a police officer, in a shooting at an Idaho mall, police say.
One person was taken into custody after the violence broke out at the Boise Towne Square Mall in the Idaho city on Monday afternoon, according to authorities.
Boise Police Department said its officers were working their way through the mall to clear one business at a time.
“I cannot stress enough how traumatic this event is for the community at large as well as those who are witnesses or the families involved,” said Boise PD chief Ryan Lee.
“We ask the community at large keep the families of the deceased in their thoughts and they also respect their privacy.”
Chief Lee said officers arrived at the shopping mall after reports of gunfire and one person being hit.
When law enforcement arrived they found a person matching the description of the suspect and there was an “exchange of gunfire”, which left one officer wounded.
Earlier the department had stated: “Officers are responding to a report of shots fired at the mall on N. Milwaukee. People are asked to avoid the area. More information will be available here as it is confirmed.”
“Officers are continuing to secure the scene, there are multiple reports of injuries. One person is in custody.”
They added: “Officers continuing to work their way though the mall to clear each business. It is expected to take a little while. We have no further information indicating additional threats at this time.”
Idaho Governor Brad Little’s office has said that he aware of the incident and has been getting updates.
“Those injured in today’s unthinkable shooting at the Boise Towne Square Mall are in my prayers. The State of Idaho stands prepared to assist the Boise Police Department as they investigate the shooting,” said Mr Little on Twitter.
Several schools in the nearby area briefly went into a shelter in place mode while the incident was unfolding, but normal operations have now resumed.
“Never should one have to or does one expect when they’re saying goodbye to their loved one who’s headed to work ... that they’ll get a call like they did today,” said Lauren McLean, Boise mayor.
“Countless people found themselves in a situation they never would have nor should have expected.”
And she thanked the mall’s workers for reacting quickly in dangerous circumstances.
“You showed in a tough and chaotic moment how much you care and what you’re willing to do to support and care for strangers.”
Police have not yet made public any motive for the shooting.
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