In a tragic incident just two days before Christmas, a man lost his life in a shooting at a central Florida shopping mall, with another individual sustaining injuries, according to police.
Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken revealed to the media on Saturday evening that the victim had been “targeted” in the attack, which took place in a common area at Paddock Mall, located approximately 80 miles northwest of Orlando.
The man succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds, while a woman suffered a gunshot wound to her leg.
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The assailant hastily fled the scene, abandoning the firearm, Balken reported. Law enforcement responded to the mall around 3:40 pm following a report of multiple gunshots.
Balken clarified that, contrary to initial concerns, the incident did not qualify as an active shooter situation.
Officers swiftly entered the mall and determined the situation was different from their expectations.
Several other mall-goers sustained injuries during the incident, including one person with chest pain and another with a broken arm, as per police statements.
An email inquiry seeking information was directed to the mall’s owner, WPG, which houses numerous stores, including JCPenney and Foot Locker.
Calvin and Diana Amos, customers at JCPenney during the incident, recounted their swift evacuation from the store as they became aware of the situation.
The couple described feeling scared and apprehensive in the wake of the unfortunate event.
Tragic Shooting Incident At Florida Mall Leaves One Dead And Another Injured
