DOTHAN, AL — Authorities in Dothan are investigating a shooting that took place outside the Wiregrass Commons Mall on Saturday afternoon, leaving one person injured and prompting a swift police response. The incident occurred near the Dillard’s department store entrance, shocking shoppers and employees who were inside the mall at the time.
According to initial reports, officers with the Dothan Police Department were dispatched to the scene shortly after 4:00 p.m. following multiple 911 calls about gunfire in the parking area. Responding units arrived within minutes, discovering a single victim suffering from what appeared to be a gunshot wound. Emergency medical personnel immediately rendered first aid before transporting the injured person to a nearby hospital for further treatment.
Authorities have not yet released the name or condition of the victim as of Sunday morning. Officials stated that the extent of the injuries remains undisclosed pending further medical evaluation. While early rumors circulated that more than one person had been shot, investigators have since confirmed that only one individual was injured in the incident.
Police officers swiftly secured the area, blocking off multiple entrances to the mall as they established a perimeter around the Dillard’s parking lot. Shoppers were advised to remain inside stores until officers deemed it safe to exit. Witnesses reported seeing a heavy police presence, with multiple patrol units, detectives, and crime scene technicians working into the evening hours.
Investigators could be seen marking shell casings and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby cameras. Authorities believe that the suspect fled the scene immediately after the shooting, though they have not released a description or any details about a possible vehicle. Detectives are now working to determine whether the shooting stemmed from an argument, a targeted act, or a random confrontation.
Several witnesses told officers they heard at least three gunshots before seeing people running for cover. One shopper described the scene as chaotic, saying that families scrambled to find safety inside nearby stores while security personnel attempted to guide them to interior hallways. The quick response from both mall security and police likely helped prevent further injuries.
In a statement, police emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public at this time but urged residents to remain vigilant. Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or captured it on video to come forward and assist with the investigation.
The Wiregrass Commons Mall temporarily closed following the incident as police continued their investigation late into the evening. Stores resumed limited operations the next morning, though some entrances remained blocked as evidence collection continued. Mall management has expressed full cooperation with law enforcement officials to ensure shopper safety.
This latest incident adds to growing concerns about public safety in commercial areas, where weekend crowds can quickly turn into scenes of panic during violent episodes. Community leaders have reiterated the importance of conflict de-escalation and responsible gun ownership as police work to reduce firearm-related incidents in the city.
As the investigation continues, authorities are reviewing all available evidence to identify the person responsible. Anyone with information related to the shooting is encouraged to contact the Dothan Police Department or submit an anonymous tip through the local Crime Stoppers line. Further updates will be released as more details emerge.
