West Palm Beach, FL: Reports indicate that a Florida mall will be closed on Wednesday following an incident involving gunfire. There was a lockdown at The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens. An official from law enforcement has confirmed that there was an incident involving gunfire. A victim has been taken to a hospital, but their condition remains uncertain.
According to sources, authorities suspect that the shooting may be connected to gang activity. First responders are currently on scene and actively investigating this incident. There is a security situation at the mall. The city has stated that no additional information is currently available.
A witness at the scene reported hearing a series of gunshots, estimating the number to be between five and ten. Several law enforcement personnel from different agencies were seen at the scene.
Several individuals who were trapped inside the mall have managed to exit the premises under the protection of law enforcement.
The Palm Beach State College Gardens campus was placed on lockdown Wednesday afternoon. Fortunately, the campus has returned to its regular routine.
The situation has been resolved and the restrictions have been lifted. The college announced on X, formerly known as Twitter, that normal activities can now resume.
All schools in the School District of Palm Beach County have resumed normal operations, including Palm Beach Gardens Community High School, Timber Trace Elementary School, Dwight D. Eisenhower K-8 School, and Watson B. Duncan Middle School. This announcement was made shortly before 5:30 p.m.
The four schools had restrictions on movement following the incident.