The Paddock Mall was shut down for the rest of Sunday following an altercation involving a gun this afternoon between two individuals that was originally reported as a possible shooting.
The Ocala Police Department (OPD) initially responded to the mall, located at 3100 SW College Road, following reports of a possible shooting.
Upon arrival, officers from both OPD and deputies from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office conducted a search but found no evidence that any shots had actually been fired. No injuries were reported during the initial response.
Following an investigation into the cause of the panic, OPD issued an update at 4:01 p.m. clarifying that the incident was an altercation between two people.
During the dispute, one individual brandished a firearm, though police confirmed that no shots were discharged.
While the mall was originally expected to resume normal operations shortly after the scene was cleared, officials ultimately decided to close the facility for the remainder of the business day.
No arrests have been made as of Sunday evening, and the incident remains under active investigation. Police officers will maintain a presence at the scene for security throughout the evening, according to OPD.