Police Detain Multiple Suspects Following Shooting Incident at Willowbrook Mall
A large law enforcement response was triggered Tuesday evening at Willowbrook Mall in Wayne after reports of shots fired inside the busy shopping center just days before New Year’s Eve.
Authorities later confirmed the situation was stabilized and that no serious injuries were reported.
Wayne Police said officers responded shortly after 7 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, after receiving multiple reports of gunfire inside the mall. In a statement shared on social media, the department said officers were actively investigating and asked the public to avoid the area while police operations were underway.
Videos circulated on social media platforms, including X and TikTok, showing armed officers moving quickly through the mall, including near the food court area. Other footage showed a heavy police presence in sections of the mall that had been cordoned off. Additional video posted on the Citizen app showed multiple New Jersey State Police vehicles staged near Bloomingdale’s and P.F. Chang’s.
Early online reports suggested a possible active shooter or mass casualty incident, with unconfirmed claims that multiple people had been shot. Law enforcement officials later clarified that those reports were inaccurate.
According to multiple law enforcement sources, investigators believe a single gunshot was fired, possibly near the Bloomingdale’s area or the food court. A spokesperson for Willowbrook Mall confirmed that one shot was fired and that no injuries were reported.
Wayne Police said officers responded quickly and were able to contain the situation without further incident. Authorities emphasized that the event did not escalate into an active shooter or mass casualty situation, despite early speculation.
Law enforcement sources indicated that four individuals were taken into custody, and one additional person was being sought in connection with the incident. Officials have not released the identities of those involved or detailed their specific roles as the investigation continues.
As a precaution, the mall was secured and cleared. Shoppers told local outlets that police began escorting people out of the building around 7:45 p.m. Ambulances were staged near the AMC theater parking lot but were ultimately not needed for serious injuries.
New Jersey State Police and officers from multiple surrounding departments assisted Wayne Police in securing the mall and conducting the investigation. Authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the gunfire, including what led up to the incident and whether any charges will be filed.
Police are urging the public to avoid the area while investigative work continues. Further updates are expected as officials release additional confirmed information.
