Vancouver Mall Halloween Shooting:
On Halloween night, October 31, 2024, a tragic shooting unfolded at Vancouver Mall, disrupting a family-friendly trick-or-treating event. The Vancouver Police Department responded to reports of gunfire at the mall. It is located at 8700 NE Vancouver Mall Drive. The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m., creating a scene of terror for parents and children alike.
One Fatality and Two Injured in the Vancouver Mall Shooting
According to the Vancouver Fire Department, one person was killed and two others were injured in the shooting. The injured individuals were transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Vancouver Police spokeswoman Kim Kapp later informed the public that the shooter remained at large, potentially armed, though she assured that there was no immediate threat within the mall.
In an official statement, Vancouver police reported that witnesses saw a person in the food court open fire, targeting one individual and injuring two others. Police allowed those sheltering inside to exit safely, guiding families and individuals out of the mall after ensuring it was secure.
Families’ Halloween Celebrations Cut Short by Panic and Chaos
The Halloween festivities at Vancouver Mall had attracted numerous families, many with young children dressed in costumes for trick-or-treating. Witnesses described the horror of the incident. They recounted the screams and the fear that filled the mall. Parents scrambled to protect their children.
One witness expressed her shock, saying, “Terrifying. It was the most frightening thing I’ve ever experienced. There were so many kids here tonight; it was heartbreaking.” She recalled hearing a young girl, approximately eight years old, crying out, “I don’t want to die.” The distressing scene unfolded as families desperately sought shelter.
Kapp later confirmed that no children were among the injured, a relief amid the chaos.
Heroic Actions: Parents and Employees Shield Children from Danger
Gregory Iiams was at the mall’s entertainment center, Round1, with his wife and young children. He shared how he instinctively shielded his kids when the crowd began to panic. Iiams enjoyed Halloween activities with his 4-year-old daughter. Then, he positioned himself between his children and the approaching commotion. He feared the worst as someone yelled about an active shooter.
Meanwhile, mall employee Natalya Brown was on duty about 30 minutes before closing when she heard a series of gunshots. Acting quickly, Brown and her coworkers pulled shoppers into their store, locking and barricading the gates to keep everyone safe. They remained locked down until around 9 p.m., when police provided clearance for them to exit.
Ryan Tomlin, an 18-year-old witness, was also caught in the chaos after finishing a bowling game with friends. He recounted the moment they heard, “Shooter, shooter! Active shooter!” He initially doubted the alarm. However, seeing police cars at the mall’s west end solidified the seriousness of the situation.
Swift Police Action and Evacuation Efforts
Vancouver Police instructed employees and shoppers to shelter in place as the situation unfolded. Meanwhile, members of the Lower Columbia SWAT Team and other law enforcement agencies began clearing the mall. Officers methodically worked to ensure that everyone was safely evacuated.
Outside the mall, a reunification area was set up near Hobby Lobby to help those separated during the shooting reconnect with their loved ones. Families were relieved to be reunited, though the shock of the night’s events lingered.
Vancouver Police Investigation Underway
The investigation into the shooting is being led by the Vancouver Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit. While the motive remains unclear, detectives are examining surveillance footage to aid in identifying the suspect. Authorities have asked the public to come forward with any information that may assist in their search.
As Vancouver Mall attempts to recover from this tragic Halloween, the community grapples with the impact of a night meant for fun and family bonding. The mall’s patrons and staff are left to process the trauma of a night that took an unimaginable turn.
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