Gunfire Erupts Outside Meridian Mall: Two Injured, Suspects at Large in Daylight Shooting

MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP, MI — May 31, 2025 — A chaotic scene unfolded in broad daylight outside the Meridian Mall on Friday afternoon after gunfire erupted in the parking lot near the entrance to Dick’s Sporting Goods, leaving two people injured and prompting a swift but brief lockdown of the popular shopping center.

According to the Meridian Township Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 1:25 p.m. on Friday, May 30, following multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired in the parking area of the Meridian Mall. When law enforcement arrived on scene, the suspects had already fled, leaving behind a crime scene and mounting questions.

Chief Rick Grillo confirmed that “multiple gunshots” had been fired during the incident, which appears to have occurred entirely outside the mall building. “Two individuals sustained injuries as a result of the gunfire,” Chief Grillo stated during a Friday evening press briefing. “They were transported to a nearby hospital. At this time, we are still working to determine the extent of their injuries.”

The victims’ identities and conditions have not yet been released, and police have not confirmed whether they were targeted or bystanders caught in the crossfire.

In response to the shooting, mall security initiated a precautionary lockdown of the facility. That lockdown was lifted shortly afterward once police confirmed that there was no threat within the interior of the mall.

“There is no indication that any shots were fired inside the mall itself,” Chief Grillo clarified. “We want to assure the public that there is currently no ongoing threat, and the mall has resumed its normal operations.”

However, a significant section of the parking lot near the north entrance remains roped off with yellow police tape as investigators from the Meridian Township Police Department process the scene. Officers could be seen collecting shell casings, photographing evidence, and interviewing potential witnesses for much of the afternoon and into the evening hours.

Police are still working to determine how many individuals were involved in the confrontation. “We’re reviewing surveillance footage, speaking with witnesses, and trying to piece together exactly what happened,” said Detective Sergeant Brian Canen. “We’re asking anyone who may have seen anything, no matter how small, to come forward.”

Authorities are encouraging anyone with information to contact the Meridian Township Police Department directly at (517) 853-4800. Detective Sergeant Canen is also available via email at canen@meridian.mi.us. Those wishing to remain anonymous can submit tips through the department’s official social media channels or online portals.

The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation. Law enforcement has not confirmed whether the incident was gang-related, the result of a personal dispute, or something else entirely.

Friday’s shooting marks a disturbing event for the typically peaceful Meridian Township community, and local residents are expressing a mixture of shock and concern. Shoppers and mall employees were visibly shaken as they recounted the sounds of gunfire and the rapid response by police.

One witness, who asked to remain anonymous, described hearing “five or six loud pops” while walking to their car. “I thought it was fireworks at first, but then I saw people running. That’s when I knew it was serious,” they said.

Despite the disruption, mall management has expressed gratitude for the swift response of law enforcement and the cooperation of shoppers during the brief lockdown. “The safety of our patrons and staff is our highest priority,” a spokesperson for Meridian Mall said in a statement. “We are working closely with police to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to assist the investigation and protect our community.”

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging vigilance but reiterating that there is no ongoing danger to the public.

This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided by the Meridian Township Police Department as more information becomes available.