Mall security concerns many after Portland shooting

SEATTLE — During the busiest shopping times of the year, mall security is a big concern especially after Tuesday’s Portland mall shooting.

On Tuesday afternoon, a gunman opened fire at crowd at Clackamas Town Center and killed two people and injured several others, authorities said.

The gunman was found dead later, but Lt. James Rhodes of the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office did not release how the he died.

General Growth Properties, the company that owns Clackamas Town Center, owns Westlake Center in downtown Seattle.

David Keating, vice president of Corporate Communications, reached out to KIRO 7 Eyewitness News reporter Alexandra Limon about those affected by Tuesday’s shooting and the safety of shoppers.

“Our heart and prayers are with the victims and their families.  They need our love and support, as does the entire community.  My heart breaks for everyone in Clackamas County and the greater Portland community.  The safety and well-being of our visitors are always our top priority, every day.  Moving forward, we want to ensure that everyone can feel the same sense of well-being and security they felt before this tragic event,” Keating said.

With more visitors going to malls during the holidays, shoppers are concerned about safety.

In 2005, a 20-year-old man stormed into the Tacoma Mall and opened fire at a crowd. Seven people were injured, and the gunman held three people hostage for hours before surrendering to police.

KIRO