Crime
38-year-old Gregory Stevens charged after reports of an active shooter prompted the evacuation at Acadiana Mall
Witnesses reported that Stevens was acting erratically, which raised alarm among patrons.
A Lafayette man has been taken into custody following a report of a potential active shooter that led to the evacuation of the Acadiana Mall on Thursday evening.
The Lafayette Police Department (LPD) responded to a call around 5:30 p.m. regarding a person reportedly armed with a firearm inside the Acadiana Mall on Johnston Street, according to LPD spokesperson Matthew Benoit.
The report prompted an immediate response from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office and Louisiana State Police.
Officers conducted thorough interior and exterior sweeps of the mall, but no armed individuals were located, Benoit confirmed.
Rumors on social media suggested gunshots were heard during the incident. However, Benoit clarified:
“Officers have no information confirming that shots were fired during the incident. During the evacuation, several businesses began closing their roll-down security doors, creating loud slamming sounds throughout the building, accompanied by people yelling and fleeing the area.”
The investigation revealed that Gregory Stevens, 38, entered the mall on Thursday evening. Stevens, a former mall security guard, had been terminated from his position in December and banned from the property.
Witnesses reported that Stevens was acting erratically, which raised alarm among patrons.
Stevens was later apprehended at a residence on Pleasant View Drive. He was booked into custody and faces the following charges:
- Terrorizing
- Trespassing
- Active warrant for possession of a stolen firearm
Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing.
LPD has reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat and that the swift response by law enforcement ensured the safety of all mall patrons and employees. Law enforcement continues to urge individuals to report any suspicious activity.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Authorities have confirmed that a suspect is in custody following a shooting incident at the Meridian Mall on Friday afternoon.
As a result, the lockdown at the mall has been lifted.
The Meridian Township Police Department issued a public advisory just before 2:00 p.m., urging residents and shoppers to avoid the area near the Dick’s Sporting Goods entrance while officers conducted an active investigation at the scene.
At this time, police have not released specific details regarding the nature of the shooting, including whether anyone was injured or the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s arrest.
Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the incident and are expected to provide additional information as it becomes available.
The public is asked to remain clear of the immediate area to allow for the ongoing investigation.