Four people shot at the mall

INDEPENDENCE, MO – After a shooting occurred at the Independence Center Mall, leaving four people injured, the local authorities have begun investigating the matter. Among these four victims, one has been reported to be critically injured, while the others have varying degrees of wounds from significant to non-life-threatening. The Independence Police Department (IPD) also confirmed that at least one victim was female.

The incident took place at the mall’s 39th Street entrance around 2:20 p.m., as conveyed by the IPD spokesperson. The police force arrived at the location following a call regarding gunfire. At present, three suspects are in custody.

Despite the incident, the authorities have assured the public that no active shooter is on the loose. The IPD has advised those picking up family members from the mall to meet at the northeast corner of the establishment’s parking lot near the Club Car Wash. However, they have also requested concerned citizens not to call 911 for information about the incident.

In a statement, the City of Independence expressed grief over the violent event and thanked the first responders for their swift action. Independence Center Mall, too, released a statement refusing to comment on the matter, further adding that the mall would remain open except for the crime scene area, as per the advice of IPD.

Also sharing his views on the matter, Mayor Quinton Lucas questioned the ease of accessibility to firearms in a post on Twitter.