Shooting Reported at Turtle Creek Mall in Hattiesburg; Mall on Lockdown

HATTIESBURG, Mississippi — A shooting incident at Turtle Creek Mall on Friday prompted an immediate lockdown of the shopping center as law enforcement and emergency personnel responded to the scene, local media and police sources reported.

Authorities confirmed a heavy police presence at the mall, located at 1000 Turtle Creek Drive, as officers worked to secure the area and assess the situation. All entry and exit points were reportedly secured during the response.

Details regarding injuries, suspects, or the specific circumstances that led to the shooting have not yet been disclosed by law enforcement. Officials on site have not released information about the number of people involved or their condition.

Shoppers and employees inside the mall were sheltered in place during the lockdown, and bystanders reported seeing a significant law enforcement response. Local news outlets indicated that reporters were being sent to the scene to gather additional information.

The Hattiesburg Police Department has not yet issued an official public statement about the incident. At this time, there is no verified information confirming whether the suspect is in custody or whether the threat has been fully contained.

Authorities are advising the public to avoid the area while the investigation remains active and to follow official updates from law enforcement and local news sources as they become available.

This is a developing story and will be updated with additional verified details as they emerge.