Texas Mall Shooting: at least 9 dead, including children

ALLEN, Texas -- Police have responded to a shooting in a huge outdoor shopping mall in Allen, Texas where, at latest report, nine people have been killed and so has the shooter, according to local authorities.

The carnage began at around 3:30 p.m. local time Saturday at the Allen Premium Outlets, according to local media outlets.

“Law enforcement is on the scene at Allen Premium Outlets. An active investigation is underway. Please avoid the area until further update,” Allen Police Department posted on Twitter.

A Collin County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson said that there are multiple victims, including children. The sheriff also confirmed that the shooter is dead at the scene.

Governor Greg Abbott commented on what he called an ‘unspeakable tragedy.' 

“Our hearts are with the people of Allen, Texas tonight during this unspeakable tragedy,” Abbott said.

“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.”

NBC Dallas initially reported that witnesses said there were at least two fatalities in the shooting at the outlet mall in Allen, Texas. That figure has now climbed to nine and we pray it doesn't grow.

Texas is an "open carry" state but unfortunately, it appears that no one nearby in the area was armed except the shooter. He was eventually neutralized by law enforcement, but situations like this make a good case for open carry.

This is a breaking situation and more will follow as it is learned.

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