BREAKING: Multiple People Shot in Food Court at WestGate Mall in Spartanburg, South Carolina — Police Confirm Active Investigation as Community Reels from Midday Violence
Spartanburg, SC — May 2, 2025 | 2:40 PM EST
A confirmed shooting incident has taken place this afternoon at the WestGate Mall in Spartanburg, South Carolina, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting a swift and ongoing emergency response.
The shooting occurred inside the mall’s food court area, typically a busy midday hub frequented by shoppers, mall employees, and families. According to early reports from local authorities and on-scene witnesses, at least three individuals have been injured in the gunfire. Emergency personnel, including paramedics and police officers, quickly responded to the scene after receiving multiple 911 calls shortly after 1:00 PM.
The Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office has since confirmed that the situation remains fluid. “We are currently securing the area and ensuring that all victims receive immediate medical attention,” said a spokesperson in a brief statement. “The mall has been placed on lockdown as our officers conduct a thorough sweep and begin preliminary investigations.”
Eyewitness Accounts Describe Chaos
Several shoppers inside the mall at the time of the shooting described the moment panic set in. “I heard about four or five shots—rapid fire—and everyone just started running,” said a local college student who asked to remain anonymous. “People were screaming, hiding under tables. It was terrifying.”
One food court employee said they saw people ducking behind counters and sprinting toward exits. “We didn’t know what was going on at first. We just reacted. I just hope the people who were shot are okay,” they told reporters.
Victims and Medical Response
The identities and conditions of the three known victims have not yet been released. EMS teams were seen transporting the injured to Spartanburg Regional Medical Center, where trauma teams were put on standby. Hospital officials have not yet confirmed the status of those being treated.
Law enforcement has not yet publicly identified a suspect or provided details on whether the shooter is in custody or still at large. Unconfirmed social media reports suggest there may have been a confrontation prior to the shooting, but these details remain speculative at this time.
Public Safety Alert and Response
Residents have been urged to avoid the area around WestGate Mall while the investigation continues. Roads surrounding the shopping complex have been partially closed off, and families with loved ones at the mall are being directed to a designated reunification area near the Sears parking lot.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) are reportedly assisting with the investigation. Federal and state officials are expected to provide support in gathering evidence and determining the motive behind the violence.
Local Leaders React
Spartanburg Mayor Jerome Rice issued a brief statement via social media, expressing concern and promising support for victims and families. “My heart is with everyone impacted by today’s tragedy at WestGate Mall. We are in communication with law enforcement and emergency services and will provide updates as we learn more,” he wrote.
Community organizations are already mobilizing to offer resources, including mental health support, for those traumatized by the incident.
Ongoing Investigation
As of this writing, no arrests have been confirmed, and authorities have not released a suspect description. Law enforcement continues to process the crime scene, interview witnesses, and review security footage from inside the mall.
We are actively gathering additional information and will continue to provide updates as soon as they become available.
If you were in the area or have relevant information that could assist investigators, you are encouraged to contact the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office at (864) 503-4500.