BREAKING: Police Respond to Armed Person Report at Valley Hills Mall — No Injuries Reported
Hickory, NC — April 18, 2025
Earlier this afternoon, just after 2:00 p.m., officers from the Hickory Police Department responded swiftly to reports of a subject in possession of a firearm at Valley Hills Mall. The initial call prompted an immediate law enforcement presence, with officers arriving on scene to secure the area and begin their investigation.
Upon arrival, officers determined that a confrontation had taken place between two individuals inside the mall. During the encounter, one of the individuals reportedly displayed a firearm to the other. Thankfully, no shots were fired, and there were no reported injuries. By the time officers reached the scene, the armed individual had already left the premises.
Police units conducted a thorough sweep of the area and worked closely with mall security to ensure the safety of shoppers, staff, and surrounding businesses. The situation was declared under control by approximately 3:00 p.m.
At this time, authorities are actively working to identify and locate both individuals involved in the altercation. Surveillance footage from the mall is being reviewed, and officers are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward.
If you have any details that could assist in this ongoing investigation, please contact the Hickory Police Department at 828-328-5551.
Important Clarification from Officials:
While social media quickly became flooded with rumors and messages referring to the situation as an “active shooter” event, the Hickory Police Department has confirmed that this was not an active shooter situation. The incident was classified from the outset as a report of an “armed person,” and no shots were fired at any point.
Authorities are urging the public to rely on official updates and verified sources for information regarding public safety incidents. The spread of misinformation during developing situations can cause unnecessary panic and confusion.
What We Know So Far:
- Time of Incident: Shortly after 2:00 p.m.
- Location: Valley Hills Mall (reportedly near Dillard’s)
- Incident Type: Confrontation involving display of a firearm
- Current Status: Under control as of 3:00 p.m.
- Suspect(s): Armed individual fled before police arrival
- No Injuries: No shots fired, no injuries reported
- Public Safety: Police have cleared the scene and continue the investigation
Further updates will be shared as soon as official information is released by the Hickory Police Department. For now, the situation remains under investigation, and the public is encouraged to remain vigilant and contact authorities with any leads.
Stay tuned for more details as this story develops.