Ten people hurt in shooting at Mall of Louisiana, police searching for suspects

Shoppers at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge scattered in panic Thursday afternoon when gunfire broke out inside the sprawling shopping center. Baton Rouge police confirmed that ten people were injured in the incident, though they have not released information about the severity of their injuries. The shooting prompted a large emergency response, with officers rushing to secure the area and evacuate people from stores and parking lots.

Authorities treated the scene as an active shooter situation in the early hours after the gunfire. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry issued a statement saying he had been made aware of the incident and was receiving regular updates from state and local officials. The FBI is assisting in the investigation, according to a spokesperson, as police work to identify and locate those responsible.

The mall, one of the largest in the state, was fully evacuated and remains closed indefinitely. Police cordoned off multiple entrances and set up a command post near the main parking area. Witnesses described hearing multiple shots and seeing people running from the food court and central atrium. Some shoppers took shelter in dressing rooms or storage areas until officers could confirm the building was secure.

As of Thursday evening, no suspects have been taken into custody, and law enforcement has not released descriptions or possible motives. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and speaking with witnesses to piece together what happened. The timing of the shooting-late afternoon on a weekday-meant the mall was moderately busy, though not at peak capacity.

This incident adds to a growing number of public space shootings across the country this year. The Bayou State has seen several high-profile gun violence events in recent months, sparking renewed debate over public safety and gun access. Community leaders in Baton Rouge are calling for calm as families await news about the injured.

Hospitals in the area confirmed they are treating the wounded, but have not disclosed names or conditions, citing privacy policies. Police urged anyone with information or cellphone footage from the scene to come forward.

The investigation is ongoing. Officials promise to release more details as they become available, but for now, the focus remains on finding the shooters and supporting victims and their families.