Police responded to Valley View Mall in Roanoke, Virginia, following reports of a shooting incident and active shooter. However, the Roanoke Police Department confirmed that no shots were fired.
Initial reports indicated that people in the mall heard what they believed were gunshots around 7:15 p.m. on Saturday. Police promptly arrived at the scene and conducted a thorough investigation. It was determined that the noise was caused by juveniles “banging on metal signs,” which was mistaken for gunfire. The investigation is ongoing, but authorities assured the public that there is no danger.
“This afternoon, at approximately 7:10pm, law enforcement officers responded to reports of possible gunfire at Valley View Mall, 4800 Valley View Blvd Northwest. Several individuals were observed running from the mall, prompting concern and calls to 911 reporting shots fired,” the Roanoke Police Department said in a statement on Facebook.
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“Upon investigation, it is believed that the noise originated from a group of juveniles who were tearing down and banging on metal signs within the mall. Information originally reported that the sounds resembled gunfire, but confirmed they were not actual shots fired. Officers are still on scene speaking to citizens and gathering information. There is currently no danger to the public,” police added.
Residents expressed their gratitude to authorities for their swift response.
“Thank you for your quick response to the mall and for updating the public so fast,” one person wrote on Facebook.
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Another added, “Thank you for responding so quickly and making sure it wasn’t gun fire.”
A third person wrote, “Thank you for your quick response and release of information.”