New details released as suspect in Vancouver Mall Halloween shooting remains on the loose

PORTLAND, OR (KOIN) — The shooter is still at large following Vancouver Mall shooting on Halloween night.

Police responded to the mall Thursday night around 7:30 p.m. after reports of a shooting and learned that someone in the food court had opened fire, killing one person and sending two others to the hospital, all during a family-friendly shopping mall. center.

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SWAT team members responded to the mall, and employees and people inside the mall were ordered to shelter in place, officials said.

Officials later cleared the mall, saying there was no active threat, and allowed those hiding to leave.

One witness shared his account of the shooting with KOIN 6 News, describing the panic as shots rang out at the mall.

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“Terribly. The scariest thing I’ve ever seen..very scary,” said the woman. “It happened so fast. There are many children here today. That was my first thought. I’ve seen dozens and dozens of baby treats at the mall. I was scared for them. I heard children’s cries, children’s screams everywhere. One girl says, “I don’t want to die, I don’t want to die.” She was probably 8 years old.”

Authorities say the suspect was wearing a Halloween mask at the time of the shooting, and it may have been a targeted attack.

The two people who were hospitalized, both men in their 30s and 40s, were treated and released from the hospital, and authorities said they were accidentally injured because they were near the scene of the initial shooting.

Officials said anyone who left items at the mall could return Friday to pick them up.

In a surveillance video provided to KOIN 6 News by Twisted Escape Room in a mall recorded on the night of the shooting, a worker lets in a family seeking shelter after several shots are fired.

Vancouver Mayor Ann McEnerney-Ogle on Friday thanked those who helped protect mall visitors and law enforcement for their quick response.

Last night was supposed to be a night of Halloween fun at the Vancouver Mall. Instead, it turned to fear as reports of gunshots spread.

We want to assure you that the safety and well-being of our community is our top priority. The Vancouver Police Department, Fire Department and other law enforcement partners responded quickly.

As we learn more, I hear stories of mall workers ushering people into stores to hide behind security doors and back offices. Thank you for your help and bravery in keeping mall patrons safe.

The Vancouver Police Department will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Anyone with information about this incident that may be helpful is asked to call the Vancouver police tip line at 360-487-7399.

In times like these, it is vital that we come together as a community to support each other and help those in need as they deal with the shock of this unexpected event. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this senseless act of violence.

The incident remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact Vancouver police.

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