Authorities responded to an incident at the Greenville Mall in Greenville, N.C., on Saturday morning after reports of gunshots. Police arrived at the scene around 11:30 a.m., and the mall was promptly evacuated. Although some mall employees claimed to have heard gunshots, Greenville Police stated that there was no evidence confirming a shooting had occurred.
Mall employee George Garner described the scene as chaotic, with many people running in fear for their safety. Another employee, Layaly Hamed, recalled seeing people fleeing toward the exits while a coworker warned that an armed individual was present inside the mall. The panic created a hectic and frightening situation for shoppers and workers alike.
According to police, an armed man was seen chasing individuals inside the mall. Officers detained two people at the scene for questioning; however, both individuals were later released pending further investigation. Witnesses reported that police continued searching the mall for a possible third suspect who may have been hiding inside.
The incident is believed to have stemmed from an altercation between several individuals inside one of the mall’s stores. Despite the panic and evacuation, no injuries were reported. The mall reopened shortly after 1 p.m. following police clearance.
Authorities assured the public that the situation was under control and that officers were actively following up with those involved. Greenville Police are working closely with individual stores to review surveillance footage, as there are no security cameras covering the mall’s common areas. Investigations are ongoing to determine the details of the event and whether any charges will be filed.
