KILLEEN, Texas – A chaotic scene unfolded at the Killeen Mall on Saturday evening, December 21, when a black pickup truck, driven by 53-year-old John Darrel Schultz from Kempner, Texas, surged through the mall's south entrance, injuring five shoppers before police fatally shot him.
The incident began around 5:30 p.m., following reports of Schultz driving erratically on Interstate 14 near Belton. According to Ofelia Miramontez of the Killeen Police Department, the suspect swerved off the road and headed directly to the mall.
"The suspect drove through the doors and continued to drive through the JCPenney store, hitting multiple people," said Sergeant Bryan Washko of the Texas Department of Public Safety during the evening news briefing.
The pursuit of Schultz commenced after he was reported as dangerous and erratic, prompting law enforcement to respond quickly. Upon reaching the mall, Schultz not only crashed the truck but also plowed through the busy department store, where he struck customers of various ages, with reports indicating victims aged between 6 to 75 years old.
Crisis responders rushed four of the injured to local hospitals, with one more finding transportation separately. The conditions of those hurt were not immediately disclosed.
Witnesses recounted moments of sheer panic, hearing gunfire as officers engaged with Schultz. "We heard multiple gunshots and saw people running away from the scene, screaming and terrified," one onlooker shared, highlighting the intensity of the chaotic situation amid the holiday shopping bustle.
Officers from the Killeen Police Department, along with state troopers and law enforcement from three other agencies, swiftly assessed the threat posed by Schultz, who was reportedly running people over before they could subdue him. The police action culminated with gunfire to neutralize the situation, ending with the driver being fatally shot.
Authorities confirmed this was not an active shooter incident. Following the resolution of the threat, the area was secured, and the public was advised to avoid the vicinity as investigations continued. The Texas Rangers are taking the lead on this case, with the Department of Public Safety acting as the primary agency.
The mall responded to the incident via social media, announcing adjusted store hours and expressing their condolences to the victims and their families. "Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our employees and guests, and we express our heartfelt sympathy to the families involved. We can't provide any more comments as investigations are still underway," Killeen Mall stated.
Retailers within the mall, including JC Penney, also issued statements confirming they have been reaching out to those affected by the harrowing events. "We stand by those impacted and support our local community as we navigate these troubling times," the retailer commented.
Local law enforcement agencies have scheduled press briefings to provide updates as new information arises, ensuring transparency throughout the inquiry process. People are interested to see how these developments will influence community perceptions of safety and security, especially around shopping centers during the holiday season.
The Killeen Mall incident raises pressing questions about emergency preparedness and community safety protocols for such unexpected situations. Authorities are likely to engage the public with future initiatives targeted at enhancing safety measures to protect citizens during peak shopping periods.
No one expects to be caught up in such violence, especially during festive times, which sheds light on the need for thorough reviews of policies associated with emergency responses and the provision of mental health resources for witnesses and victims alike.
On Tuesday, community leaders and the public will gather to discuss the incident's ramifications and share their concerns, aiming to collectively navigate this traumatic experience and fortify their bonds.
