In a chilling incident just days before Christmas, a targeted act of violence unfolded in Ocala, Florida, as a lone gunman opened fire in Paddock Mall, leaving one man dead and a woman seriously injured.
The shocking event occurred on Saturday, one of the busiest shopping days of the year, as confirmed by the Ocala Police Department.
Targeted Act of Violence Shakes Paddock Mall
Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken revealed that the shooting was a deliberate act of violence, with the victim identified as 40-year-old David Nathaniel Barron.
Barron was discovered dead from gunshot wounds in a common area inside the mall, while a woman, shot in the leg, is expected to survive and is currently receiving treatment at a local hospital.
Several others in the mall suffered injuries during the shooting, including one person with chest pain and another with a broken arm.
Shooter at Large
The suspect, described by Police Chief Mike Balken as a “Black man wearing black pants, a hoodie, and a black mask, fled the scene on foot.”
Despite intensive efforts, the police are still in pursuit of the alleged shooter.
Public Assistance Sought in Identifying “Person of Interest”
Images of a “person of interest” were released by the police early Sunday, appealing to the public for assistance in identifying the individual. The person in question was seen wearing dark clothes, white sneakers, and a red hat.
With a crowded mall at the time of the shooting, Chief Balken emphasized the importance of potential witnesses in aiding a successful resolution to the case.
Police Recover Weapon and Mall Closure
The authorities have successfully recovered the firearm believed to have been used in the shooting. Meanwhile, Paddock Mall remained closed as of Saturday night, though the parking lot was reopened for people to retrieve their vehicles.