Mall Shooting as Multiple People Gunned Down in California

Police have said two people were injured in a shooting at the Valley Plaza mall in Bakersfield, California on Monday, according to local media.

The shooting happened around 7:21 p.m. in the parking lot and the two victims have been sent to a local hospital. The Bakersfield Police Department are investigating the incident.

Lindsay Kahn, the Spokesperson for Brookfield Properties, management for the Valley Plaza Mall, deemed the shooting an "isolated incident in the parking garage" that did not involve mall security, according to a KGET report.

Following the shooting, police closed off the parking lot to conduct their investigation.

Police did not say whether they have any suspects or if they have made any arrests in relation to the shooting yet.

Police have asked that anyone with information regarding the incident contacts the Bakersfield Police Department at 661-327-7111.

Newsweek has contacted the Bakersfield Police Department for comment.

Both Bakersfield's Chief of Police Greg Terry and Mayor Karen Goh spoke at a vigil held in September last year to commemorate victims of gun violence.

Terry said to curb gun violence, the city must adopt a community-led response.

"We have a wonderfully supportive community. But unfortunately, there's not a simple answer. It has gone on for far too long," he said.

Goh echoed this message and said she was pleased to see so many people at the vigil from the community. She said it was important to continue to band together to tackle violent crime.

"Speak out, say what's going on. Be that voice. Let's not be guilty of remaining silent," she said.

Terry also wrote an article on August 25, 2021, reinforcing the department's dedication to protecting the citizens of Bakersfield.

"Nothing is more important to a community than ensuring that all residents feel safe and protected," he wrote.

He also explained that the Bakersfield Police Department had entered an agreement with the California Department of Justice for greater transparency in how it operates.

"One might ask, why would the Bakersfield Police Department enter into an agreement that prescribes our conduct and includes an independent monitor to review and report on our operations.

"That is a fair question and one we carefully considered. I care deeply about the men and the women, officers staff and their families who are so committed to this community.

"We are confident in our team, protocol and accountability. Quite simply, we have nothing to hide.

"So for us, adopting the agreement means we can prove our commitment and control our future instead of litigating our past."