At least one person was killed and five others were injured after a shooting broke out inside the food court of the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge, authorities confirmed.
The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon when an altercation between two groups escalated into gunfire inside the busy shopping complex. Police said the shooting was not random, and that some bystanders were caught in the crossfire.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, and the injured victims were transported to nearby hospitals. Officials reported that at least two of those hurt required surgery.
Law enforcement detained several individuals in connection with the shooting, though authorities believe additional suspects may still be involved. Despite the violence, officials stated there is currently no ongoing threat to the public.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene inside the mall, with shoppers running for safety as shots rang out. The mall was subsequently secured and evacuated while police began their investigation.
Authorities have not yet released full details about the motive behind the confrontation, and the identity of the person who died has not been officially disclosed. The investigation remains ongoing.