Mall shooting sees multiple people gunned down, shoppers evacuated

Multiple people were injured during a shooting on Saturday afternoon at Columbiana Centre mall in Columbia, South Carolina, according to police.

“We have confirmed that people have been injured during the incident — they are receiving medical attention. The extent of the injuries is unknown at this time. #ColumbiaPDSC officers have been evacuating the mall and getting people to safety,” the Columbia Police Department tweeted Saturday afternoon.

Though the police didn’t reveal the severity of those injured, witnesses at the scene told FITSNews that some people are in critical condition.

No details were revealed about potential suspects or whether any arrests have been made.

The police are investigating the incident while the mall’s main entrance on Harbison Boulevard has been closed, according to WIS 10 News.

Police also warned mall employees not to leave the areas inside the mall in which they are sheltering for safety.

“Employees inside the mall who were told to shelter in place for safety, law enforcement officers will come to you as a protected escort. DO NOT leave a store until told to do so by proper authorities,” the Columbia Police Department said in another tweet.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division SWAT and regional agents are also helping police.

The Columbia Police Department also tweeted: “if you need to pick up loved ones, the reunification area is 320 Columbiana Drive – Fairfield Inn. We are working on a transit option to take people who may still be near the mall to the reunification area.”