Willowbrook Mall Shooting: Wayne Police Investigate NJ Food Court Gunfire
Authorities in Wayne, New Jersey, are investigating a shooting incident that occurred at Willowbrook Mall on Tuesday evening. Reports indicate that a gunshot was fired in the food court area shortly after 7 p.m.
Details of the Incident
Wayne Police responded swiftly after multiple reports of gunfire. Initial investigations suggest that a physical altercation preceded the shooting. The situation escalated quickly, prompting a significant law enforcement presence.
Emergency Response
- State Troopers and police from over a dozen nearby towns responded to the scene.
- Officers secured the mall by blocking parking lot entrances.
- Evacuations were ordered for the safety of mall patrons.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of panic and confusion. Amirras Saint Paul, a mall-goer, recalled the chaos as he fled with the crowd. He noted the abrupt shift from normalcy to alarming chaos.
Eyewitness Accounts
- According to Ellison Lucien, initial confusion led many to believe the first shot was harmless.
- The second shot triggered mass panic, leading to hurried evacuations.
- Shane Garvey described feeling overwhelmed as the crowd surged during the evacuation.
Wayne Police have confirmed that only one individual was injured in the incident. Law enforcement officials acted quickly to control the scene, and several individuals were detained for questioning. However, it remains uncertain if a firearm was recovered from the site.
Safety Measures and Public Safety
The Wayne Police reassured the public that the situation was brought under control. Despite the fear experienced by many, officers explained that their priority was ensuring safety during the incident.
This event has prompted discussions around mall security and public safety in crowded spaces.
