A shooting incident took place at the Krasny Kit Mall in Mytishchi, with multiple reports confirming the chaos triggered by the violence. The situation unfolded when a dispute erupted between security personnel and one of the mall's visitors, leading to shots being fired from a traumatic pistol.
According to the Telegram channel Baza, the altercation began when security refused entry to the suspect, prompting him to initially use pepper spray against them. Following the confrontation, he exited the mall but returned shortly afterward armed with the pistol, carrying out several shots.
The Regional Health Ministry reported four individuals sustained injuries as the shooting left them moderately wounded. Those affected received immediate medical attention, and they are currently being hospitalized at facilities operating under the Ministry of Health of the Moscow Region.
Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing moments as they heard gunfire echoing within the mall. SHOT, another Telegram channel, noted patrons began to panic and flee the premises upon hearing the shots. Six rounds could reportedly be heard during the incident.
Videos circulating on social media depict the scene, showing terrified shoppers evacuate swiftly through emergency exits. One witness shared, "Employees at the stores began to panic, no one warned us," highlighting the confusion surrounding the situation.
Reports indicate the suspect, dressed entirely in black, had been previously stopped by security due to the suspicious nature of his presence, as he was carrying what they perceived to be a dangerous item—a black box. After the initial altercation, he was seen returning to the mall, pistol drawn.
Describing the events leading up to the shooting, another eyewitness expressed shock, saying, "We sensed something was off and began heading out after witnessing a young man with injuries on his face. We later saw security personnel escort the man outside before the shots rang out." The timing and rapid escalation of events left many feeling unsettled.
Initial reports suggested three individuals were injured, but the subsequent update from authorities confirmed four injuries, leading many to question the accuracy of the original figures. Images from the scene show bloodstains near one of the closed stores within the mall, emphasizing the reality of the incident.
Law enforcement officials responded swiftly and cordoned off the area around the shooting, initiating security protocols typically enacted during such crisis situations. Many visitors watched from outside as police units began their investigation, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
Authorities have yet to provide official statements detailing the aftermath, but the swift actions taken to secure the area have been highlighted. The mall authorities indicated on social media it would be resuming normal operations after the emergency, though many patrons remained skeptical about returning immediately.
This incident is frighteningly reminiscent of past events involving gun violence within civilian spaces. The incident triggers memories of the recent shooting at various public places where individuals have unleashed chaos under similar circumstances.
The Mytishchi shooting stands as another shocking reminder of the violent confrontations possible even within seemingly secure environments like shopping malls. With the investigation still active, the community watches closely as updates emerge, hoping for transparency and accountability.
Mental health support services are expected to be made available for those affected and witnesses of this disturbing episode to aid their recovery from the trauma experienced during the shooting.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the shooting to come forward and help paint a clearer picture of what transpired during this alarming incident.