A mass shooting occurred on Saturday afternoon (3:36 pm) at Allen Premiun Outlets near Dallas in Texas. 8 people were killed and 7 others injured, three of them being in critical condition. The youngest victim was 5 years old. The shooter who was firing indiscriminately at passers-by was also killed by an officer who at that time was on a mission nearby. The gunman, with an AR-15 style weapon, was dressed all in black, and was wearing tactical gear. Police authorities believe the shooter acted alone. The mall was evacuated.
Blood could be seen on sidewalks outside the mall. Allen Police Department is investigating the incident. Agents and K-9 officers are now working to locate shell casings and begin the process of tracing the firearm or firearms involved in the attack. Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a statement expressing his condolences. “Our hearts are with the people of Allen, Texas tonight during this unspeakable tragedy.” The City of Allen tweeted: “Our hearts are with the individuals and families impacted by this tragic event.” Allen is a community of about 100,000 people.
