On Thursday afternoon, gunfire erupted in a crowded mall in Louisiana, injuring more than ten people and leading to a significant police operation as terrified shoppers fled for safety.
The incident occurred around 1:20 p.m. in the food court area of the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge. Many victims were transported to local hospitals, with several in critical condition, according to Baton Rouge Police Chief Morse.
First responders arrived swiftly, establishing a triage area near JCPenney while officers worked to evacuate patrons. Some were seen rushing into the parking lot, while others were escorted to their cars by police.
Footage from the scene displayed officers carrying a mother and her children to safety amidst the chaos.
Authorities suspect that one or two individuals targeted a specific group, with the assailants still at large by Thursday afternoon. The mall’s entrances were subsequently closed off.
BREAKING: A mass shooting has just been reported at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge.
Six people have reportedly been injured.
Please pray for the victims and their families 🙏 pic.twitter.com/ZMXpOxRAyG
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) April 23, 2026
Multiple law enforcement entities, including the FBI, SWAT teams, and state police, descended upon the scene as the search for the suspects intensified. A helicopter from the state police hovered above.
During the lockdown, some shoppers and staff were directed into service tunnels beneath the mall, as reported by a WBRZ reporter present when the shooting began.
Governor Jeff Landry announced he was in touch with law enforcement while the situation unfolded.
“I am aware of the active shooter scene at the Mall of Louisiana. I am in coordination with law enforcement and we will update as we know more,” he stated.
“Please avoid the area. Sharon and I are praying for those affected and are thankful for the quick response from our law enforcement teams,” he added.
Attorney General Liz Murill spoke with District Attorney Hillar Moore as they sought to understand the events that transpired.
“I have spoken to District Attorney Hillar Moore, who is monitoring the situation involving shots fired in the food court at the Mall of Louisiana,” she confirmed.
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“Many law enforcement agencies are involved in the response – please steer clear of the area. Additional details are forthcoming,” she noted.
Baton Rouge Mayor Sid Edwards reported that a command post had been set up in the vicinity.
“We have established a command post. There has been a shooting with multiple casualties. All civilians have been safely evacuated from the mall. Keep the victims and their families in your prayers,” Edwards shared.
Addressing the press, he remarked, “To the individuals responsible for this, we will find you. We will not tolerate this kind of violence in Baton Rouge.”
Authorities urged anyone who filmed the incident to come forward as the search for suspects continued.
