Man Shot at Mall, as Hunt for Black Friday Deals Takes Violent Turn
Black Friday got off to a chaotic start at several locations as a Missouri man was shot in a shopping mall parking lot while other bargain hunts descended into violence.
The shooting occurred outside the Columbia Mall in Columbia, Mo., just before midnight. A 19-year-old man suffered life-threatening injuries when another man shot him while putting a gun in a holster, according to reports.
No arrests have been made, and the two men involved knew each other, according to KRCG. Police are continuing to investigate the incident.
Meanwhile, a mall in Hoover, Ala., was forced to close down early after it was plagued by brawling customers.
The Riverchase Galleria was a scene of panic at about 11 p.m. on Thursday night as multiple fights reportedly broke out. The mall had opened at 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day to cater to those looking to get a jump on Black Friday deals, WBRC reported.
No arrests were made, but footage of one dust-up between two girls was widely shared on social media.
The mall re-opened as scheduled on Friday morning, but with additional police presence, according to WBRC.
Related Stories:
From Black Friday to Online Sales, How to Save Big on Gifts This Holiday Season
Just in Time for Black Friday, How to Avoid Holiday Shopping Stress
How Did Black Friday Get Its Name?
