LISTEN HERE:
Tragedy struck in Texas as eight individuals lost their lives in a shooting at the Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday afternoon. The incident left seven others injured, causing widespread shock and grief. Allen Fire Department Chief Jonathan Boyd said that four of the injured victims are now stable, while the remaining three are in critical condition. Counting the suspected shooter, nine people have died in total; seven on site and two others who later succumbed to their injuries.
During a Saturday evening press conference, Police Chief Brian Harvey provided details of the grim event. A police officer happened to be nearby on an unrelated call just when gunshots broke out at the Allen Premium Outlets around 3:36 p.m. The officer swiftly ‘engaged the suspect and neutralized the threat,’ according to the authorities.
A law enforcement source informed Fox News that the suspected shooter is deceased and believed to have acted alone. They also mentioned that multiple victims were being treated; aged between 5 and 61 years old. A Medical City Healthcare spokesperson revealed that their facilities tended to eight victims in total.
9 dead, 7 others injured in Texas mall shooting pic.twitter.com/rWOggeQ4FT
— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) May 7, 2023
On Saturday, the ATF Dallas Field Division had announced on Twitter that they are responding to an active shooting situation. Officials from the FBI also arrived at the scene to assist in the investigation. Eyewitness accounts added to the chilling nature of the incident.
Joshua W. Barnwell, an Operations Administrator, told FOX 4 Dallas about his experience on site. He recounted hearing at least 30 gunshots and seeing around 60 rounds of ammunition strewn on the ground. Other witnesses shared similar stories of the harrowing ordeal.
A mother, who was present at the mall with her daughter, described hearing popping noises and seeing sparks. ‘We were outside the Converse store and we just heard all this popping,’ Elaine Penicaro explained to FOX 4. She continued, ‘We kind of all just stopped, and then a second later, just ‘Pop, pop, pop, pop, pop,’ and there were sparks flying like it was right in front of us.’ The Allen Police Department urged everyone to steer clear from the area during the course of the investigation.
In the wake of the tragic event, Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a statement expressing both condolences and a commitment that the state will provide resources to local officials. ‘Our hearts are with the people of Allen, Texas, tonight during this unspeakable tragedy,’ Abbott said in the statement. He emphasized the need for Texans to support each other during this time and praised the swift action of the police officer on the scene.
‘Law enforcement is on the scene at Allen Premium Outlets. An active investigation is underway,’ the governor’s statement read. Gov. Abbott urged citizens to avoid the area until further updates were available.
The tragedy at the Allen Premium Outlets has undoubtedly shaken the local community and the state of Texas. This event underscores the importance of staying vigilant and supporting one another during such difficult times.
Texas officials responded promptly to the situation, deploying the necessary resources and personnel. The swift actions of the police officer on site likely prevented further casualties and brought an end to the threat.
https://twitter.com/4Mischief/status/1655016936336510976?s=20
The Allen shooting represents another grim reminder of our responsibility as a society to not only protect our citizens, but also to foster a culture that discourages such heinous acts. As we mourn the lives lost, we must work together to find solutions that prevent future tragedies.
While it is crucial to understand the motives behind this tragic event, it is equally important to focus on the bravery and resilience of the Allen community. Their response in the face of adversity, coupled with law enforcement’s effective action, exemplifies the strength and solidarity inherent in our nation.
In times of crisis like these, we must be thankful for the unwavering dedication and professionalism displayed by our law enforcement agencies. Their rapid and effective response at the scene protected and saved many lives.
As the investigation continues, we hope that the community of Allen, Texas, along with the families of the victims, find strength and support in the face of this tragedy. We must stand together as a nation, united in our resilience and determination to create a safer and more secure society.
Let us remember the lives lost in the Allen Premium Outlets shooting and honor their memories by working together to build a better future for all. Through unity, strength, and positivity, we will overcome the difficult times and emerge stronger as a community.