A suspect is still at large after a “targeted” shooting at the Paddock Mall in Ocala that left one man dead and a woman injured.
According to a statement issued by the Ocala Police Department, the shooting was reported at around 3:40 p.m.
Although it was originally called in as an active shooter, OPD said the shooting had already ended after they entered the building with a heavy police presence.
Upon entering the mall, one man was found in a common area deceased from gun shots.
One woman was taken to the hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries, according to OPD.
Across social media, dozens of people reported hearing shots fired before chaos broke out at the mall, which is located at 3100 SW College Road.
At the time, OPD reported that “multiple” people had been injured.
“There are multiple people injured. The suspect is believed to have fled,” reads a statement that was issued by OPD just after 4 p.m. today.
Police say they are currently investigating the scene and did not provide any additional information regarding the suspect.
They believe the shooting was targeted and are asking anyone in the mall to contact authorities.
Anyone with information is asked to contact 352-368-7867.
Check back on Ocala-News.com for updates in the coming hours.
