Three Injured in Westfield Valley Fair Shopping Mall Shooting on Black Friday
SAN JOSE, CA - A shooting at Westfield Valley Fair mall in San Jose, California, injured three people on Black Friday, prompting a massive police response adn a temporary shelter-in-place order. Authorities reported the incident occurred shortly before 6:00 p.m. and declared the scene safe around 6:31 p.m., stating there was no longer an active shooter.
The shooting unfolded amidst the bustling Black Friday shopping crowds, raising concerns about public safety during the holiday season. While police have indicated the incident appears isolated, the event underscores the ongoing issue of gun violence in public spaces and the potential for disruption during peak retail periods. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to identify the shooter and determine a motive.
Emergency dispatch calls began coming in around 5:35 p.m., reporting multiple people sheltering in place and evidence of a shooting near Macy’s, including bullet casings and a trail of blood. Dispatchers received reports of two to three injured individuals.
Officers arriving on the scene encountered a chaotic situation, with numerous patrons fleeing the mall and causing traffic congestion as they crossed nearby streets. “We have multiple people running across the street,” one emergency responder radioed, according to dispatch feeds.
The shooting took place on the second floor of Macy’s, according to police. Photos circulating on social media also showed shattered windows at the adjacent Bowlero bowling alley.
“My prayers are with the victims and I no our officers are doing everything they can to find the person responsible and hold them accountable,” san Jose Mayor Matt Mahan said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Police have asked the public to avoid the area while the investigation continues.