One person died and at least five were injured this Thursday in a shooting at a shopping center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana (USA)which occurred around 1:22 p.m., when Two groups of people started an argument that led to shots being fired. inside the food area; The Police confirmed that there are five suspects in custody and that the investigation continues to determine responsibilities and possible additional parties.
The Chief of Police from Baton Rouge, T.J. Morseexplained that the incident began when two groups faced each other verbally inside the food area of the shopping center and later an exchange of fire took place.
According to the most recent official balance sheet, five people were taken to hospitalswhere one diedanother underwent surgery and the rest have minor injuries. Furthermore, it was reported a minor injury treated at another medical center.
The authorities indicated that This is not a random act.but of a conflict directed between specific groups, although people unrelated to the altercation were affected.
Suspects detained and video analysis
The Police reported that five people are in custody and they are being interrogated to clarify their participation in the events. However, The exact number of shooters and the weapons used have not been confirmed..
Research teams analyze security camera recordings from the shopping center, who captured the moment of the shooting in the restaurant area. In parallel, the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) They collaborate in the proceedings.
The police chief noted that investigation is ongoing and the participation of more people is not ruled out.
Chaos among buyers and rapid police response
Witnesses described scenes of panic when the shooting began. Clients and employees They ran to take refuge in stores, fitting rooms and interior areaswhile others threw themselves on the ground to protect themselves.
Videos of the incident show victims lying near a fast food restaurant already paramedics evacuating wounded people on stretchers.
Authorities highlighted that Agents present in the shopping center and in the parking lot responded immediatelywhich allowed the rapid deployment of dozens of officers to control the situation.
Context: Second mass shooting in less than a week
The event occurs few days after another mass shooting in Shreveport, Louisianawhere a man killed eight children before dying, shot down by the authorities, in one of the most serious episodes recorded in the country since 2024.
According to data from Gun Violence Archiveso far this year there have been at least 120 mass shootings in the United Statesdefined as incidents with four or more victims.
*Stay up to date with the Now newsletter. Key information at the moment it happens. Subscribe here.