JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said Saturday that it is investigating a report of shots fired in the parking lot of Avenues Mall.
JSO said that at around 5 p.m., an off-duty lieutenant at the mall saw hundreds of teenagers in the parking lot. Shortly after, multiple shots were fired and the teens scattered.
Officers responded to the scene and immediately searched the area for suspects, victims and witnesses. Investigators said they have not located anyone who was struck by gunfire, but one unoccupied vehicle was hit.
JSO investigating shooting at Avenues Mall (Copyright 2026 by WJXT News4JAX – All rights reserved.)
The agency said one person is in custody as a person of interest, and there was no threat inside the mall. Several stores voluntarily closed as the incident unfolded.
Out of an abundance of caution, police are asking parents to come pick up their children if they’re in or around the mall.
Someone called News4JAX and said her son was inside with his girlfriend and she heard panic and people screaming as she tried to speak with her son. The woman also said her son heard one gunshot as he escaped the mall.
Anyone with information is asked to call JSO at 904-630-0500 or email jsocrimetips@jaxsheriff.org. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS.
Copyright 2026 by WJXT News4JAX – All rights reserved.