Police Respond to Reports of Possible Shooting at West County Mall

Lead Emergency crews swarmed West County Center in Des Peres after witnesses reported gunfire in the food court around 2 p.m. Saturday, prompting a full lockdown and mass evacuation of shoppers.

Nut Graf Authorities launched a large-scale response amid unconfirmed reports of an active shooter, though no injuries or gunshot victims have been confirmed. The swift reaction underscores growing concerns over mall safety in the St. Louis suburbs.

Rapid Police Deployment

Officers from the Des Peres Police Department and neighboring agencies arrived within minutes of the 1 p.m. 911 calls reporting shots fired near the food court. Tactical units established a perimeter and conducted room-by-room clearances, escorting patrons and employees to safety.

Evacuation and Lockdown

  • Shoppers sheltered in clothing racks and stock rooms at American Eagle and other nearby stores before being guided out through emergency exits.
  • The mall remained under lockdown for over an hour, with all entrances closed until commanders deemed the premises secure.

Witness Accounts

A shopper who was walking through the food court minutes before the alarm said she heard “what sounded like multiple pops,” then saw people sprinting toward store back rooms. Another witness described hiding behind display racks for about 30 minutes before police led her outside.

Official Statement

Des Peres Police Chief Mark Kruse confirmed that while the investigation is ongoing, there is currently no evidence of an actual shooting. “We are treating every report seriously,” Kruse said. “Our priority is ensuring the safety of everyone on the property.”

Mall Operations Resumed

By 4 p.m., the lockdown was lifted. Mall management announced that stores and restaurants would reopen once cleared. Security protocols are under review, and coordination with local law enforcement will continue to prevent future incidents.

West County Center, located at Manchester Road and I-270, houses over 100 retailers and dining venues. This incident marks the second high-profile security scare at the mall in less than five years.