A police response was reported at NorthPark Mall in Dallas on Friday after several witnesses said they heard a “loud pop.” The noise prompted concerns about a possible shooting or active-shooter situation. However, early indications suggest it may have been a false alarm. Authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the incident.
DFW scanner reported on X, "Multiple Dallas PD officers have responded to North Park Mall for reports of a loud gunshot-type noise heard in the food court, causing a panic. No reports of injuries. Officers report it might have been dry ice placed in a water bottle causing the loud bang. Officers going around the mall making sure anyone hiding knows it’s safe to come out."
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Witness reports
Several people took to social media to report the disturbance.
One person wrote on Reddit, "Was eating at the food court and heard a loud pop. Everyone went quiet and looked at a general area. Another loud pop and we all ran so fast. Not sure what it was but didn’t wanna risk it."
{{/usCountry}}One person wrote on Reddit, "Was eating at the food court and heard a loud pop. Everyone went quiet and looked at a general area. Another loud pop and we all ran so fast. Not sure what it was but didn’t wanna risk it."
{{/usCountry}}Another added, "My brother called and said he heard a bunch of gunshots and everyone started running out of there."
A third person wrote, "Buddy at the food court at NorthParkCenter heard a bang and everyone started looking around. After a second bang, everybody ran."
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Another witness reported, "Everyone started running from the food court after the second loud noise. It did not sound like gunshots but they went into lockdown procedures anyway."
Another added, "I just saw everyone running! I ran so fast with my baby in his stroller. So scary."