KILLEEN, TX – A dramatic high-speed chase ended in tragedy Saturday night at the Killeen Mall when law enforcement fatally shot a suspect who had driven through the entrance of a department store, injuring several people. The chaotic scene unfolded as three off-duty officers, one of whom was working as mall security, responded to the unfolding crisis.
The incident began when the suspect, whose identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin, crashed a vehicle through the glass doors of a JCPenney store, according to Sergeant Brian Washko of the Department of Public Safety (DPS). As the vehicle barreled through the store, it struck multiple individuals, creating panic and chaos among shoppers.
Authorities confirmed that five people were injured, ranging in age from 6 to 75. Their conditions vary from minor to severe, but officials have not disclosed further details about their injuries. There is currently no active shooter threat, Washko assured, as the suspect was neutralized by law enforcement.
Witnesses described the surreal scene as the vehicle continued its destructive path inside the mall. DPS troopers and Killeen Police Department officers pursued the suspect on foot, attempting to stop the vehicle as it continued to pose a danger to mall patrons.
The chase reached a critical point when officers from multiple agencies, including DPS and Killeen Police, engaged the suspect with gunfire, ultimately terminating the threat. The investigation into the incident remains active, with authorities working to piece together the events leading up to the suspect’s deadly actions.
As night fell, the mall area was swarmed with law enforcement vehicles, adding to the shock and disbelief of onlookers. “It’s crazy what the world is coming to,” remarked one witness, noting the unprecedented police presence.
While the investigation continues, officials are urging anyone with information to come forward. The community remains on edge as it grapples with the aftermath of this violent episode. The Killeen Mall, a hub of local commerce, is now a focal point of a major law enforcement inquiry.
Authorities are expected to release more information as the investigation progresses. The Killeen community, meanwhile, is left to process the disturbing events that unfolded in their midst.