Baton Rouge, Louisiana – A shooting at the Mall of Louisiana on Thursday, April 23, 2026, left one person dead and five others injured after two groups exchanged gunfire in the food court, according to Baton Rouge Police Chief TJ Morse. Authorities initially reported as many as 10 people were injured, but later clarified the number following medical assessments. Five individuals have been taken into custody in connection with the incident, though police continue to search for additional suspects who may have fled the scene.
The shooting occurred around 1:30 p.m. Inside the mall’s food court, where an argument between two groups escalated into violence. Police Chief TJ Morse confirmed that investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and appealing to the public for any cellphone video or eyewitness accounts that could assist in identifying those responsible. “If you’re going to act like this in Baton Rouge, if you’re going to do these things, you’re going to get caught,” Mayor Sid Edwards stated during a press briefing, emphasizing the city’s commitment to holding perpetrators accountable.
By late afternoon, dozens of police vehicles remained in the mall’s parking lot, with multiple helicopters overhead and armed officers in bulletproof vests patrolling the perimeter. Law enforcement agencies including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) are assisting local authorities in the investigation. Mall spokesperson Lindsay Kahn described the event as a “frightening day” for everyone present, while retail worker Desire Batton recounted hiding in a breakroom with colleagues until police arrived to escort them to safety.
One of the victims has been identified as a high school student from Ascension Episcopal School in Lafayette Parish, according to family members and local news reports. The student’s aunt, Jolene Sizemore of Denham Springs, said her niece was at the mall with friends when the shooting began and reported that her friend was shot “pretty bad” and required hospitalization. Sources told The Acadiana Advocate that an Ascension high school student was in critical condition, though it remains unconfirmed whether this refers to the same individual.
At approximately 4:19 p.m., Police Chief Thomas Morse Jr. Provided an update, confirming one fatality and five injuries, with one victim undergoing surgery and three others sustaining minor injuries. A fifth individual was described as having “very minor” injuries. Morse reiterated that five people were in custody but declined to disclose their identities or potential charges, noting that the investigation remains active and ongoing.
The Mall of Louisiana released a statement expressing sorrow and anger over the incident, stating they are “heartbroken and angered that our shopping center was the location for today’s horrific incident.” The mall affirmed its cooperation with the Baton Rouge Police Department and pledged continued support for the investigation. Officials have urged anyone with information to reach forward, stressing that public assistance is vital to apprehending all those involved.
As of Thursday evening, authorities maintained that there is no known ongoing threat to the public, but the search for additional suspects continues. Investigators are working to determine the motive behind the altercation and whether any prior conflicts between the groups contributed to the violence. No further details about the deceased victim or those in custody have been publicly released pending notification of next of kin and ongoing legal proceedings.
This incident marks the second instance of gun violence in Louisiana within the week, prompting renewed concern about public safety in communal spaces. Community leaders and local officials have called for calm while urging vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement. Updates on the investigation will be provided as they become available through official channels.
Anyone with video footage, photographs, or information regarding the shooting at the Mall of Louisiana is encouraged to contact the Baton Rouge Police Department or submit tips through their official portal. The public’s cooperation remains essential in ensuring a thorough and transparent investigation.