Panic at West County Center: Active Shooter Reports Prompt Lockdown at Des Peres Mall
DES PERES, MO — Chaos erupted at the West County Center mall in Des Peres on Saturday afternoon when reports of an active shooter triggered a swift lockdown, sending shoppers and employees fleeing for cover. The incident unfolded around 2 p.m., sparking fear throughout one of the busiest shopping hubs just west of St. Louis.
Lockdown and Response
Witnesses described scenes of confusion and panic as mall security and law enforcement directed people into secure areas. Many shoppers were escorted into back rooms of stores, while others were rushed out through service exits. Families were separated in the rush, with some reunited later in designated safe areas outside the mall.
Police quickly flooded the scene, establishing a perimeter and systematically sweeping through the property. Tactical units were deployed to ensure that no active threat remained, while emergency responders stood by to treat any potential injuries.
Conflicting Accounts Spark Panic
As word spread rapidly on social media, early reports suggested shots may have been fired inside the mall. However, by late afternoon, police had not confirmed whether a gunman was located or if any shots were actually fired. Officials stressed that their first priority was the safety of the public and ensuring that the mall was fully secured before allowing anyone to re-enter.
Witnesses reported hearing loud noises that some believed to be gunfire, but others suggested could have been the sound of objects being knocked over during the stampede to escape.
Shopper Reactions
For those inside, the experience was harrowing.
“I was in the food court when people started yelling and running,” said one shopper, who described being pushed along with the crowd into a nearby store’s storage area. “You don’t think, you just run. I thought it might be the last time I saw my family.”
Another employee recalled locking the doors to her store and hiding with customers in a back hallway: “It felt like forever. We just stayed quiet and waited for the police to come.”
Investigation and Next Steps
Authorities are continuing to investigate the origin of the reports and whether a shooter was present. As of Saturday evening, no injuries had been confirmed, and no suspect was publicly identified. The lockdown was eventually lifted after officers deemed the premises safe, though many stores remained closed for the rest of the day.
Officials commended the quick cooperation between mall staff, law enforcement, and first responders. Still, the incident has left lingering unease in the community, highlighting ongoing concerns about public safety in high-traffic areas.
Community Impact
West County Center is a popular destination for families, students, and weekend shoppers. The sudden lockdown disrupted not only business but also left many residents shaken. For parents with children at the mall, the uncertainty was especially terrifying.
City officials have assured the public that they will review emergency response procedures to ensure readiness in the event of any future crisis. Meanwhile, police are urging anyone with firsthand accounts, videos, or information about the incident to contact the Des Peres Police Department.
Though no fatalities were reported, the emotional impact of the scare is likely to linger. For many, Saturday’s events served as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of public spaces and the importance of swift, coordinated response in times of crisis.
