Indianapolis, Indiana – The latest act of violence to occur at a central Indiana mall is a fatal shooting that happened at the Castleton Square Mall on Tuesday.
Police in Greenwood reported that a firefight took place at the end of December in the parking lot of the Greenwood Park Mall. Although no one was hurt, the gunfire gave rise to untrue reports of an active shooter and spread panic during the busy Christmas shopping season.
Another horrific mass shooting occurred at the Greenwood Park Mall over the summer.
July 17th. Jonathan Sapirman entered the shopping center and remained in the restroom for over an hour before exiting to start shooting. Sapirman killed three people in a matter of seconds: Pedro Pineda, 56, Victor Gomez, 30, and Rosa Mirian Rivera de Pineda, 37.
Within a six-month period, all of these instances took place. As a precaution, the IMPD says it has increased patrols at the site.
On Wednesday, shoppers visited the mall once more, many of whom expressed reluctance to do so.
“That’s where people go for most of their shopping and for someone to do that it’s just crazy,” said shopper Calvin Sibley. “So probably won’t be seeing me much in malls now.”
IMPD claimed that it was because of community support that its officers were able to act swiftly. They advised speaking up and being alert as the greatest ways to defend yourself.
“You should always be aware of what’s going on around you, looking to see what happens,” Sgt. Genae Cook said. “When you see something that appears suspicious or you might see like a volatile situation, call the police.”
Despite the fatal gunshot the previous night, customers came back on Wednesday, saying that if the mall won’t provide protection, they will.
“It just feels like now you need protection,” said Mary Gian. “I don’t really want to carry a gun but you just need protection.”
The enhanced patrols of the area, according to IMPD, will continue.
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