Shooting Investigation Underway at Fort Lauderdale Strip Mall
Fort Lauderdale, FL – A shooting investigation is currently underway after reports of shots fired at a Fort Lauderdale strip mall prompted a large police and SWAT team response on Thursday afternoon.
The Incident
Just after noon, Fort Lauderdale Police were dispatched to the 3300 block of West Broward Boulevard following a report of gunfire. Officers and a SWAT team quickly arrived at the scene, shutting down traffic along Broward Boulevard for several hours to conduct a thorough investigation.
Upon arrival, authorities discovered evidence indicating that a shooting had occurred. However, no victims or suspects were found at the scene.
Witness Accounts
Eyewitnesses provided chilling details of the incident. Barbara Cruz recounted, “The guy opened the door, shot three times, and then went back in.”
Another witness, Darrell Smith, added, “We just heard three gunshots, someone opened the door, fired, and then closed it again. I heard boom, boom, boom. He fired shots up in the air.”
A third witness, known only as Homer, described the immediate police response: “I saw police bumper to bumper, and I knew it had to be gunshots. They clustered by the entrance and then breached the door.”
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives are actively seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or possesses relevant information. The Fort Lauderdale Police Department urges those with information to come forward and assist in the investigation.
Community Reaction
The shooting has left local residents and business owners shaken. A salon owner in the strip mall expressed concern, stating, “It’s terrifying to think this happened in broad daylight in a place we frequent for shopping and services.”
Police Statement
A spokesperson for the Fort Lauderdale Police Department reassured the community of their commitment to public safety. “We are thoroughly investigating this incident and are determined to identify and apprehend those responsible. We ask the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities,” the spokesperson said.
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