Deputies called to South Carolina mall after shooting report

Holbrook said that even by 9 p.m., there were still people believed to be hiding in stores, fearful for their safety.

Lt. Curtis Wilson with the Richland County Sheriff’s Office told WYFF-4 News that the shooting appears to have been an “isolated incident” involving several individuals.

Shots had been reported outside two department stores, the station reported.

Wilson and Holbrook say the people involved in the dispute have left the scene.

“We are actively looking for three males”, Holbrook said.

There have not been any reports of shooting victims.

Officers are evacuating areas inside the mall. Access in and out of the building is being controlled.

Haltiwanger said she did not see the shooting happen.

“When we clear the mall and the other areas, we think it will shed light on what occurred”, Holbrook said.

Police said the mall has been evacuated, the station added.

Earlier, Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin sent a Tweet on his account reading: “Urgent! Please avoid the mall and Harbison Blvd if possible”.

Those who have been separated from loved ones are asked to go to the Toys R Us parking lot and CPD officers will assist them.