Las Vegas ‘MASKED GUNMAN’ leaves popular shopping centre on ‘LOCKDOWN’ - MANHUNT launched
A MASKED gunman in Las Vegas has left a popular shopping centre on lockdown as police launched a massive manhunt for the suspect, it has been confirmed.
Armed police arrive at Boulevard Mall in Las Vegas
The incident is understood to have taken place at the Boulevard Mall and at around 7pm local time.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) said no shots had been fired.
Deputy Chief Chris Jones said: “Video was obtained showing a person with a long gun, wearing a mask.
“We've conducted three searches and are unable to locate the individual at this time.
The incident is understood to have taken place at the Boulevard Mall
“Not an active shooter, no shots were fired and no citizens were injured.”
Reporter Eric Hilt stated said families told him they were evacuated from the shopping centre by armed police.
He said: “Several families told me police officers went into the stores with their guns drawn and escorted them out of the mall.”
A user posted an image to Twitter as they noted a “heavy police presence” outside the popular shopping place.
Police vehicles could be seen swarming outside the shopping centre
Video also emerged on the social platform showcasing armed officers outside the “Sears entrance” of the building.
Police vehicles could be seen swarming outside the shopping centre.
Helicopters also circled the scene.
Tough to see but many, many Metro and fire units on the south end of the lot at Twain near SeaQuest Aquarium. We still have few details. Follow @FOX5Vegas for the latest updates. pic.twitter.com/J3QX42nXOa
— Kristen DeSilva (@kristendesilva) May 18, 2018
Local reporter Kristen DeSilva urged people to “avoid the area” as she posted photos of the scene.
She wrote: “Many, many Metro and fire units on the south end of the lot at Twain near SeaQuest Aquarium.
“Still many more Metro units arriving from every direction. Avoid the area and stay safe.
“Lots of activity along Maryland at Sierra Vista.
“All entrances to the mall side of the road are closed. This is a very active scene.”
The Boulevard Mall opened in March 1968 and is located in the town of Paradise.
It houses roughly 100 stores and restaurants.
Officers are investigating a person with a gun call at the Boulevard Mall.
— LVMPD (@LVMPD) May 18, 2018
No shots confirmed.
No injuries reported.
Maryland Pkwy from Desert Inn to Twain is closed.
Please avoid the area. #LVMPDnews
Other users took to social media and expressed fear over the incident.
One user said: “There was legit hundreds of cops outside of this mall in Vegas holy s*** it’s insane.”
Local reporter Joe Bartels said the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is currently “clearing the mall”.