On March 2, 2025, chaos erupted at the Krasnyy Kit Mall in Mytishchi, Moscow Region, as gunfire rattled the usually busy shopping center, sending visitors fleeing for safety. According to multiple eyewitness accounts shared on social media, the first reports of the shooting began at around 5:30 PM, when at least six shots were heard, creating panic among shoppers.
Witnesses described the alarming scene as people rushed to evacuate the premises, many leaving their coats behind due to the urgency of the situation. Videos circulated on Telegram platforms showed customers fleeing through hallways and down emergency staircases, escaping what many feared could turn deadly.
According to the regional prosecutor's office, the incident began when security personnel confronted a suspicious man dressed entirely in black, who had attempted to enter the mall carrying a suitcase. After being denied entry, he reportedly deployed pepper spray against the guards. The escalation continued when the man left the mall but returned moments later armed with a non-lethal traumatic pistol, opening fire.
Local authorities confirmed the arrest of the shooter shortly after the incident. Reports indicated three to four people sustained injuries during the chaotic exchange, including at least one security guard. The Ministry of Health later updated the condition of the injured, indicating they were stabilized and out of immediate danger.
Eyewitness accounts reflect the frightening atmosphere, with one shopper recounting, “We heard the shots from the second floor and saw people running. It was terrifying.” Another visitor elaborated on the confusion, “[People] were just running out, screaming 'shooting.' No one knew what to do.”
Further details emerged about the shooter, identified as having previously been removed from the premises due to erratic behavior. Just before the shooting, there had been altercations with mall security. Eyewitness reports suggested he provoked guards by claiming, “Will you beat me like last time?” before producing the firearm.
The dramatic response from law enforcement was evident, with police and emergency services arriving swiftly to establish control. According to the local police, the shooter was apprehended without any additional violence, alleviating concerns of wider chaos within the mall vicinity.
Despite initial fears of serious injuries, all victims were reported to be recovering. The shooting's unnerving nature and its occurrence at a well-frequented mall echoed memories of previous tragic events, heightening anxiety among residents.
This incident at Krasnyy Kit Mall serves as yet another reminder of the increasing prevalence of gun-related incidents and the urgent need for re-evaluation of public safety measures across retail and communal spaces.
Local social media responded with outrage and concerns over mall security protocols, prompting discussions about how incidents like this can be prevented. Meanwhile, investigations continue, with authorities examining how the individual was able to carry out the attack with minimal resistance.
Overall, the incident sparked substantial concern, with many expressing fears about their safety when shopping, indicating potential long-lasting impacts on consumer behavior even after the immediate threat had been contained.
Further updates will follow as law enforcement continues to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident and review security practices at the mall.