Nine people are dead, and seven others were injured on Saturday after a gunman opened fire at an outdoor mall north of Dallas, Texas, officials said.
Police responded to a shooting at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas.
“Law enforcement is on the scene at Allen Premium Outlets,” the Allen Police Department tweeted. “An active investigation is underway. Please avoid the area until further update.”
A police officer on the scene engaged the shooter, Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey said on Saturday.
“This is a tragedy. People will be looking for answers,” Harvey said during a press briefing. “We’re sorry that those families are experiencing that loss.”
In the news: Riverview Man Sentenced To 15 Years In Federal Prison For Two Armed Robberies
On an unrelated call, Harvey said an officer at the outlet mall responded to the shooting around 3:36 p.m.
“He heard gunshots, went to the gunshots, engaged the suspect, and neutralized the suspect,” Harvey said.
The police chief said they believed the male shooter acted alone.
Nine people, including the shooter, were killed, and seven others were wounded in the shooting, Boyd said during a Saturday night press conference. Three of the wounded are in critical condition.
Medical City Healthcare told local WFAA that they were treating eight of the victims ranging from 5 to 61 years old. It is unclear which of those victims are deceased.
In the news: 3 Shot In Front Of 7-Eleven In Zephyrhills Saturday
“Our hearts are with the people of Allen, Texas tonight during this unspeakable tragedy,” Republican Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas said in a statement issued Saturday. “I have been in contact with Mayor Fulk and DPS Director McCraw as well as other state and local leaders and offered the full support of the State of Texas to local officials to ensure all needed assistance and resources are swiftly deployed, including DPS officers, Texas Rangers, and investigative resources.”
Texas Sen. Ted Cruz said that he and his wife were praying for the families of the shooting and has been in contact with local officials.
“I have offered whatever support is needed to do justice and help those in need. Thank you to the incredible law enforcement who put a stop to the monster who committed this act of evil,” he tweeted.
Android Users, Click To Download The Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter. Signup for our free newsletter.
We can’t do this without your help; visit our GiveSendGo page and donate any dollar amount; every penny helps.