A large police presence descended on the Meridian Mall in Okemos, Michigan, Friday afternoon after reports of a shooting in the parking lot prompted an urgent response from multiple law enforcement agencies.
According to Meridian Township Police Chief, the incident unfolded around 1:20 p.m., drawing officers from Meridian Township, East Lansing, and Michigan State University Police Departments. Authorities confirmed that multiple individuals were injured in the shooting, though the number of victims and the extent of their injuries have not yet been released.
By 2 p.m., officials had not disclosed the circumstances that led to the gunfire or whether suspects had been identified. Investigators are continuing to piece together details of what transpired in the moments before officers arrived on scene.
In a statement posted on Facebook, the Meridian Township Police Department advised the public to steer clear of the east side of the mall near the Dick’s Sporting Goods entrance, citing an active investigation. However, police reassured residents there is no ongoing threat to public safety.
When officers reached the scene, they found that all individuals involved in the shooting had already fled the area. The scene remained active as investigators worked to review surveillance footage, gather witness statements, and collect evidence.
The Meridian Mall, a busy shopping destination in the Greater Lansing area, was quickly secured by police to ensure the safety of shoppers and employees during the initial response.
Authorities have not announced any arrests, and the investigation remains ongoing.