1 dead, 5 injured in shooting at Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge

BATON ROUGE, La. (WVLA) – One person was killed and five others were injured in a shooting at the Mall of Louisiana on Thursday afternoon, Baton Rouge police and local authorities have confirmed.

The Baton Rouge Police Department said two groups of people had gotten into an argument in the mall’s food court at around 1:25 p.m., around the time the shooting unfolded. Five suspects have since been taken into custody in connection with the shooting.

Authorities said Thursday afternoon that there was while no known threat to the public, the incident didn’t appear to be a random act of violence.

Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sid Edwards joined law enforcement at the scene in the afternoon, saying, “To the thugs who did this, we are going to catch you.”

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry had earlier released a statement on the incident, saying he had been made aware of an “active shooter scene” at the Baton Rouge shopping complex.

“I am aware of the active shooter scene at the Mall of Louisiana. I am in coordination with law enforcement and we will update as we know more. Please avoid the area. Sharon and I are praying for those affected and are grateful for a quick response by our law enforcement officials.”

Mall spokesperson Lindsay Kahn also confirmed a shooting at the shopping complex but referred other questions to police.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill further advised the public to avoid the area.

“Multiple law enforcement agencies are responding – please avoid the area. More details will be available soon.”

This is a developing story.