A reported shooting near the TJ Maxx entrance at Sawgrass Mills Mall caused panic among shoppers and employees on Thursday, leading to a heavy law enforcement response and temporary disruptions inside the mall.
Witnesses reported seeing people running out of the mall near the Oasis area as the situation unfolded. Initial reports suggested a possible shooting near the TJ Maxx entrance, prompting police to respond quickly to the scene.
Following an investigation, law enforcement determined that a group of teenagers had been involved in a physical altercation. According to police, the teens ran through several stores, which contributed to the confusion and fear among shoppers who believed an active shooter situation might be occurring.
Authorities later clarified that there was no confirmed shooting and no evidence of an active shooter at the mall. The incident was described as a disturbance stemming from a fight, rather than a targeted act of violence.
No serious injuries were reported. Police remained on scene for crowd control and to ensure public safety while the situation was brought under control.
Officials reminded the public to rely on verified information from law enforcement during rapidly developing incidents and urged parents to speak with their children about appropriate behavior in public spaces. The incident remains under review.
