Chief of the fire department Elena J. Boyd confirmed that nine people are dead, including the shooter, and seven people are still being treated at area hospitals.
ALLEN, Texas – Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to a fatal shooting at Allen Mall Saturday afternoon.
During a press conference held on Saturday night, fire chief Alena J. Boyd confirmed that nine people are dead, including the shooter, and seven people are still being treated at area hospitals.
Medical City Healthcare told WFAA they are treating eight victims, ranging in age from 5 to 61. It is still unclear which of these victims died.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the first responders, victims, their loved ones and the North Texas community during this tragic event,” the agency said.
According to officials, the shooting happened around 3:36 p.m Allen Premium Outlet820 W. Stacy Road.
Witnesses told WFAA they saw the shooter outside the Fatburger restaurant in the mall complex.
They also described the shooter as wearing all black.
The Allen Police Department confirmed that an officer responding to an unrelated incident in the area heard gunshots and ran toward them. The department said the officer “neutralized” the shooter and called 911.
The city of Allen has issued a public safety alert warning residents to stay away from the mall area. The city’s rallying point was established on Chelsea Boulevard.
Congressman Keith Self of Texas’ 3rd Congressional District, which includes Collin County, shared his thoughts during a Saturday evening press conference.
“First of all, we need to pray for the families affected by this tragedy. We are grateful to the first responders who responded to the shooting … and acted quickly to neutralize the threat,” Self said.
Texas Rep. Jeff Leach, whose family lives in Allen, also responded to the scene to offer his support.
“This community is home to us and our hearts are devastated,” he said.
Police are not releasing the suspect’s name at this time, but believe he acted alone. They are asking anyone who witnessed this shooting or has information about this crime to call them at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).
US officials, Texas leaders respond
Governor Greg Abbott issued a statement after the shooting that specifically said, “Our hearts go out to the people of Allen, Texas tonight during this unspeakable tragedy.”
Abbott said he is in contact with Allen Mayor Ken Fulk, DPS Director Stephen C. McCraw, North Texas law enforcement and city officials “to ensure the rapid deployment of all necessary assistance and resources, including DPS personnel, Texas Rangers and investigators resources”.
U.S. Representative Keith Self of Texas’ 3rd Congressional District, which includes Collin County, also issued a statement on his social media pages.
In a tweet, Self said, “We are devastated by the tragic news of the shooting that occurred today at Allen Premium Outlets. Our prayers are with the victims and their families, and with all law enforcement agencies on the scene.”
Self added that Allen police have “full control of the scene.”
Rep. Leach is in Allen and says he is working with local law enforcement with any resources they may need.
“I am grateful to the Allen Police Department, the Collin County Sheriff’s Office, the Texas Police Department – and all of our law enforcement agencies – for their heroic, quick response and immediate action. I will continue to monitor the situation and keep you updated as I receive it,” Leach said in a statement, in which he offered prayers for the victims and those affected.
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the shooting, the White House said. Biden is said to be “monitoring the situation closely and is in contact with law enforcement and local officials to offer support,” according to a White House official.
This is a developing story. We will update as more information becomes available.
https://www.wtol.com/article/news/crime/investigation-underway-reported-shooting-allen-outlet-mall/287-4ff8ca1b-ae70-4c6d-b491-1f2eb41cebaa
