Man Shot at Minnesota Mall; Two Juveniles Detained as Search Continues for Gunman
MAPLEWOOD, Minn. — A shooting at Maplewood Mall on Sunday evening left one man wounded and prompted a swift response from local law enforcement, who are now searching for the suspected gunman still at large. The incident unfolded in the mall’s lower concourse amid what authorities describe as a disturbance involving multiple individuals.
When officers arrived at the scene, they found an adult male suffering from a gunshot wound to the hip. Emergency responders transported the victim to Regions Hospital, where he was treated for injuries deemed non-life-threatening. The Maplewood Police Department confirmed the victim’s injury and described the situation as a disturbance near one of the mall entrances.
Two juveniles were taken into custody shortly after the shooting and booked into Ramsey County Jail on suspicion of third-degree riot, according to reports from Ramsey County officials. Investigators believe the shooting stemmed from a fight that erupted among a group of people inside the mall. Witnesses at the scene told local news outlets that a confrontation had occurred in a bathroom shortly before gunfire erupted.
Police have described the suspected shooter as a male with a small build, wearing a black stocking hat, black jacket, white shirt, and black pants. Despite the detentions, the individual who fired the weapon remains unidentified and at large. The Maplewood Police Department has urged anyone with information to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
The incident has raised concerns about public safety in shopping centers, echoing a nationwide focus on security in public spaces. According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, malls and similar venues are considered soft targets for violent acts, prompting calls for increased vigilance and preparedness.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and have increased patrols in the area. The Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office is collaborating with the Maplewood Police Department to ensure a coordinated response. Community members are encouraged to report suspicious activity to local law enforcement or through the Crime Stoppers program.
This shooting follows a troubling pattern of violence in public spaces across the country, underscoring the importance of community awareness and law enforcement cooperation. The Federal Bureau of Investigation continues to track incidents of gun violence nationwide and works with local agencies to prevent such tragedies.
As the investigation unfolds, Maplewood Mall remains open with heightened security measures in place. Officials have assured the public that they are taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of shoppers and employees alike. Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
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