Nine people are dead, including the shooter, and seven people are hospitalized following a shooting at the Allen Premium Outlet Mall north of Dallas. Three of those hospitalized are in critical condition and four others are in stable condition. The victims' ages ranged from 5 to 61.
Police say an officer was on another call when he heard the shots and was able to neutralize the situation, shooting the suspect. Eyewitnesses reported a number of shots were fired outside an H&M store at the mall. Simon Properties says there are more than 100 stories in the large outlet mall that covers a large area adjacent to Highway 75.
"Today is a tragic day for the City of Allen, our citizens, our friends and visitors who were at the Allen Premium Outlets," said Allen Mayor Ken Fulk. "We are a strong and caring community and we want all of the victims and their families impacted by this tragedy to know that we will wrap our arms around you, and we are here for you. The City of Allen pledges to offer our complete support. We know you are grieving, we are grieving. Rest assured, the nation and the world are also grieving."
"Allen is a proud and safe city which makes today’s senseless act of violence even more shocking. However, I want to commend our police and fire departments for their quick response. Their thorough training not to hesitate to move toward the threat likely saved more lives today," said Fulk. "We also want to thank all of our surrounding municipalities and law enforcement agencies for offering their assistance at the scene. This collective effort is what makes our North Texas communities united."
"We know the days ahead will be difficult and somber. While we remember the victims of today’s shooting, we want to convey our appreciation for the condolences and notes we are receiving from all over the world. I have received calls from The White House, Governor Abbot and many other national, state and county officials who have reached out to the City of Allen to express their support and desire to help the Allen Community in any way possible, said Fulk. "On behalf of the city council, our law enforcement personnel, first responders and all of our city employees – we will remain strong and stand united."
The search for answers continues. Local law enforcement was joined by the FBI as they searched the shooter's home overnight.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has video footage should contact 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324)
Political leaders, athletes and celebrities are reacting to the shooting.
President Joe Biden issued the following statement:
"Eight Americans, including children, were killed in Allen, Texas yesterday – the latest act of gun violence to devastate our nation. Jill and I are praying for their families and those critically injured. We're grateful to the first responders who acted quickly and courageously. Yesterday, an assailant in tactical gear armed with an AR-15 style assault weapon gunned down innocent people in a shopping mall, and not for the first time. Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar. We need more action, faster to save lives. Once again, Congress must send me a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Enacting universal background checks. Requiring safe storage. Ending immunity for gun manufacturers. I will sign it immediately. We need nothing less to keep our streets safe."
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Governor Greg Abbott issued the following statement:
“Our hearts are with the people of Allen, Texas tonight during this unspeakable tragedy,” said Governor Abbott. “I have been in contact with Mayor Fulk and DPS Director McCraw as well as other state and local leaders and offered the full support of the State of Texas to local officials to ensure all needed assistance and resources are swiftly deployed, including DPS officers, Texas Rangers, and investigative resources.”
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Lt. Governor Dan Patrick issued the following statement:
"Please join Jan and me in mourning the victims of the unspeakable tragedy in Allen. Please also join us in prayer for the victims' families and friends along with the residents of Allen. We are grateful for our brave first responders who were deployed to stop the shooter and investigate this hideous crime. We are thankful for their bravery and courage."
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Attorney General Ken Paxton issued the following statement:
"Pray for Allen, Texas."
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U.S. Senator Ted Cruz issued the following statement:
"Heidi and I are praying for the families of the victims of the horrific mall shooting in Allen, Texas. We pray also for the broader Collin County community that’s in shock from this tragedy. My team is in contact with local officials, and I have offered whatever support is needed to do justice and help those in need. Thank you to the incredible law enforcement who put a stop to the monster who committed this act of evil."
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U.S. Senator John Cornyn issued the following statement:
"I am grieving with the Allen community tonight, and I send my gratitude to the brave Allen Police officers, Collin County first responders, and all of those involved in responding to this afternoon’s horrific incident."
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Texas Congressman Keith Self issued the following statement:
"We are devastated by the tragic news of the shootings that took place at the Allen Premium Outlets today. Our prayers are with the victims and their families and all law enforcement on the scene. This is an ongoing situation, but Allen PD has full control of the scene. A shooter is down and there are multiple casualties. They are continuing to work to ensure the scene is safe. The public is being asked to stay away from that area while this investigation continues."
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Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray, who attended Allen High School said, "This is sickening. Prayers to the mass shooting victims in Allen, Texas. If there is anyway I can help those affected by this tragedy please let me know. When is this s*** gonna stop?"
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Seattle Seahawks safety Steve Terrell, who also attended Allen High School said, "Please pray for the city of Allen and the victims at the outlet mall today. Such a tragedy."
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Washington Commanders running back Jonathan Williams, who is an Allen native said, "Man terrible news in my hometown. Praying for the families!"
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Detroit Lions defensive tackle Levi Onwizurike was also a native of Allen and said, "Praying for Allen and All the people and families affected So senseless."