At least 10 injured in targeted shooting at Baton Rouge mall

LEXINGTON, Ky. — A "targeted" shooting at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge on Thursday afternoon left at least 10 people injured, law enforcement said. No fatalities have been reported.

Baton Rouge Police Chief Thomas S. Morse Jr. said shots rang out in the food court area of the mall around 1 p.m. after a conflict erupted between two groups of people, based on surveillance video reviewed by investigators. The police chief indicated he no longer believes there is an active threat to the public, though he did not provide details about possible suspects.

Police believe some of the victims were innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire, with the severity of their injuries varying. The incident marks the second instance of mass gun violence in Louisiana within a week. On Sunday, a father fatally shot eight children, including seven of his own, across two houses in a Shreveport neighborhood, leaving two women critically wounded.

Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sid Edwards addressed the incident during a press conference at the scene, saying "prayers for the victims and their families above all else" while pledging that authorities would apprehend those responsible. "To the thugs who did this, we're going to catch you. We're not gonna have this in Baton Rouge," Edwards said.

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry said on social media that he is coordinating with law enforcement and thanked first responders for their quick reaction. "I and my wife are grateful for the swift response," Landry said, urging the public to avoid the mall area.

Images from the scene showed a major police presence at the shopping center. Authorities are encouraging witnesses to contact Crime Stoppers with any video footage or information related to the shooting.

When asked about concerns citizens may have regarding the two violent incidents across the state, Edwards acknowledged the public's right to worry while noting broader societal challenges. "I think people at the end of the day have the right to be concerned about it, and sometimes the devil lives everywhere," he said.