Westroads Mall in Omaha, Nebraska is the scene of a shooting today. First responders have declared that at least two people have been injured.
Shooting Incident at Westroads Mall. One victim was transported to the hospital with critical injuries. Suspects fled the scene and are at large. OPD is searching the entire mall as a precaution. Please avoid the area. A press release will be sent later with more information.
— Omaha Police Dept (@OmahaPolice) April 17, 2021
According to KETV7, police were called to the mall around noon after reports flooded in claiming that a shooting had taken place near the JC Penney.
The police have confirmed that one person is in critical condition, and have stated that it is "potentially an active shooter situation," urging people to "stay away from the area." Authorities are scouring the mall for any leads.
There’s a large police presence outside of the Westroads Mall right now. Police tell me this is currently not an active shooter situation at the moment. Witnesses tell me they heard a loud popping noise coming from the JC Penny’s. Then they sheltered in place. pic.twitter.com/svptAVhAGd
— Shirelle Moore FOX42 (@ShirelleMooreTV) April 17, 2021
KETV7 reports that the mall is now surrounded by "a SWAT team, the sheriff's department, Omaha Police", and that the parking lot is emptying out.
This shooting comes just over a month after an Omaha police officer was shot in the head at Westroads Mall.
This is a breaking story and will be updated.