Black Friday shopping turned chaotic at the Westfield Valley Fair Mall when gunshots rang out, leaving three people injured, including a 16-year-old girl. ABC10 reports that the incident, which took place inside the mall on the border of San Jose and Santa Clara, did not involve an active shooter but appears to have been a dispute between at least two people.
The three victims, who were shot at around 5:40 p.m. on one of the busiest shopping days of the year, were quickly transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. According to ABC7, an argument between two individuals outside of Macy's on the second floor escalated to gunfire, tragically resulting in bystanders being hurt. San Jose Police are still in search of a suspect who fled the scene with several companions, some pushing strollers.
In an effort to contain the situation and ensure public safety, police evacuated and cleared the mall, searching for any additional threats. Cellphone videos recorded during the incident showed crowds leaving the premises, some escorted by officers. Police also noted shattered glass outside a storefront.
Sgt. Jorge Garibay of the San Jose Police Department told ABC7 that the incident involved only two individuals and was not targeted at shoppers. Two bystanders were injured. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to locate the suspect and any accomplices.
The investigation continues as San Jose police appeal to the public for any information or video that may help identify the suspects. Authorities are working to ensure safety at Westfield Valley Fair Mall in the aftermath of the incident.
