A targeted shooting at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge on Thursday afternoon, April 23, 2026, left 10 people injured, including two in critical condition. The gunfire erupted around 1:22 p.m. in the mall’s food court following an argument between two groups. Baton Rouge Police Chief TJ Morse confirmed that while the shooters were targeting one another, several innocent bystanders were caught in the crossfire as the dispute escalated into a shootout.
Emergency responders quickly established a triage site near the JC Penney entrance to treat victims. At least six people were transported to local hospitals by EMS, while others arrived at medical facilities via private vehicles. Two victims were rushed into surgery upon arrival. While the mall was placed on immediate lockdown and eventually closed for the day, authorities believe there is no ongoing threat to the public, as the incident was a localized conflict rather than a random mass shooting attempt.
The suspects fled the scene immediately after the shooting and remain at large. Law enforcement agencies, including the Baton Rouge Police Department, State Police, and federal agents from the FBI and ATF, are currently reviewing surveillance footage and processing the scene to identify those involved. Governor Jeff Landry and Mayor-President Sid Edwards have both issued statements condemning the violence, with the Mayor-President vowing that the “thugs” responsible will be caught and prosecuted.