BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry confirmed Thursday afternoon that law enforcement was responding to an active shooter scene at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge, where 10 people were injured. The Baton Rouge Police Department said the incident began around 1:25 p.m. when two groups got into an argument in the mall's food court, escalating into gunfire.
Authorities stressed that there is no known ongoing threat to the public, but the shooting does not appear to be a random act of violence. The perpetrators remain at large, and police are actively searching for them.
Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sid Edwards arrived at the scene and issued a stark warning: “To the thugs who did this, we are going to catch you.” His comments underscored the city's determination to hold those responsible accountable.
Governor Landry released a statement saying he was in coordination with law enforcement and urged the public to avoid the area. “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. Please avoid the area. Sharon and I are praying for those affected and are grateful for a quick response by our law enforcement officials,” he said.
Mall spokesperson Lindsay Kahn confirmed the shooting but deferred further questions to police. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill also advised the public to steer clear of the shopping complex, noting that multiple law enforcement agencies were responding.
The incident adds to a troubling pattern of public shootings in the region. Just last month, a domestic shooting in Shreveport left eight children dead before the suspect was fatally wounded by police. More recently, an early morning shooting near the University of Iowa injured five people, including three students.
This is a developing story. Police have not released details on the condition of the injured or any suspect descriptions. Updates are expected as the investigation continues.
