PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — Police in Palm Beach Gardens are investigating reports of gunshots fired at The Gardens Mall on Wednesday. City officials confirmed that the mall was secure but closed for business for the rest of the evening. The incident was not classified as an active shooter event, but rather appears to have been a targeted incident.
Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots while inside the mall and sought shelter in nearby stores. Authorities have allowed people and vehicles to leave the mall as they conduct a thorough search to determine the source of the alleged shots.
In response to the incident, nearby St. Mark’s Episcopal School was placed on lockdown, and a lockdown at Palm Beach State College’s campus in Palm Beach Gardens has since expired. Several local schools were also on limited movement but have now returned to normal activities.
The Gardens Mall, located in South Florida’s Palm Beach Gardens, is home to over 160 shops and restaurants. After the incident, city officials expressed appreciation for the swift response from local law enforcement and fire departments.
As of now, little information has been provided about the details of the incident, leaving members of the community in the dark about the circumstances. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not announced when the mall will reopen.
The safety of patrons and employees is of utmost importance, and the community is eager to receive updates and further details about the situation. In the meantime, people are encouraged to stay informed and follow any developments related to the incident.