Lafayette Police: No Evidence of Shots Fired, No Injuries at Acadiana Mall

A chaotic scene unfolded at the Acadiana Mall late this afternoon (Jan. 2) after multiple reports surfaced on social media and from eyewitness accounts claiming to have heard gunfire. However, the Lafayette Police Department has confirmed that no shots were fired and no injuries have been reported.

UPDATE:

Lafayette Police gave the all-clear after investigating an "active incident" at the Acadiana Mall. Despite reports of a man allegedly armed with a gun, police swept the entire mall and found no evidence of shots fired, nor was anyone injured.

UPDATE:

According to Lafayette Police spokesperson Matthew Benoit, officers responded to the mall at 5725 Johnston Street at 5:38 p.m. following reports of a possible armed individual inside. Law enforcement swiftly evacuated the mall and began a comprehensive sweep of the premises.

Video footage circulating online showed officers methodically clearing the area, some with weapons drawn, as concerned shoppers fled the scene. Eyewitnesses interviewed on local news live streams described hearing what sounded like gunfire, further fueling panic.

Despite these alarming reports, Benoit emphasized that no evidence of gunfire has been found, and no one has been harmed. The police remain on-site to ensure the safety of the public and to investigate the reports.

This incident has caused widespread panic, confusion, and conflicting updates, with many shoppers and employees taking to social media to describe the tense moments during the evacuation. Some expressed relief upon hearing no shots were fired, while others urged the community to await official updates before making any conclusions.

As this is an active and developing situation, the Lafayette Police Department has promised to provide additional updates as more information becomes available.

The public is encouraged to avoid the area while authorities complete their investigation. Stay tuned for further updates.

ORIGINAL STORY:

Here are some of the initial reports posted to social media:

I corresponded with one woman who says her daughter works in the mall, and they were hiding after hearing what they thought were shots.

Here is a video from KLFY:

This is a developing story, and the KPEL News Team is working to provide additional coverage for Acadiana. Updates will be shared as they become available, so download the KPEL News app via Google Play or in the App Store and subscribe to breaking news alerts to get the latest information sent directly to your mobile device.

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