Five Victims Injured in Targeted Shooting at Brass Mill Center in Waterbury, Connecticut; Police Investigation Underway

WATERBURY, CT — A disturbing and chaotic scene gripped the Brass Mill Center mall on the afternoon of Tuesday, May 27, 2025, when a dispute escalated into gunfire, leaving five individuals injured. Authorities confirmed the incident was not a random act but rather the result of a targeted confrontation among individuals who knew each other. The investigation is ongoing, with one person of interest in custody and another believed to be involved.

Scene of the Incident: Panic and Chaos

The shooting occurred at approximately 4:45 p.m. inside the busy Brass Mill Center mall, located at 495 Union Street, a central hub in Waterbury. Witnesses described a harrowing scene, with the sound of multiple gunshots echoing through the corridors of the shopping center, prompting shoppers and employees to flee or hide inside stores.

Police responded within minutes. Armed officers with long rifles, tactical gear, and K-9 units flooded the mall as part of a city-wide emergency deployment. Several entrances were blocked, and the entire complex was placed on lockdown for several hours as law enforcement swept the premises and escorted patrons to safety.

Victims and Medical Response

According to Waterbury Police Chief Fernando Spagnolo, five adults sustained gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel were dispatched to the scene, and all five victims were transported to area hospitals. Thankfully, none of the injuries are considered life-threatening.

As of Wednesday morning, all five victims remain in stable condition, but their names have not yet been released pending family notifications and the continuation of the investigation.

Nature of the Shooting: A Targeted Act, Not Random

Authorities quickly ruled out the possibility of a random mass shooting. During a press conference, Chief Spagnolo emphasized that the attack appeared to stem from a personal conflict:

“This was not an indiscriminate shooting. It was a targeted attack. The individuals involved knew each other, and the conflict escalated into gunfire.”

Investigators believe the shooter, described as a man in his early 20s, was involved in an ongoing dispute with at least one of the victims. Surveillance footage from mall security cameras is being reviewed to piece together the sequence of events. Detectives are also examining social media and cellphone records related to the suspect and victims.

Arrests and Persons of Interest

One person of interest was taken into custody within hours of the incident, according to Waterbury police. That individual is believed to have been directly involved in the shooting or its aftermath. Law enforcement officials are currently searching for at least one other person who may have been an accomplice.

Waterbury Mayor Neil O’Leary stated:

“This is an active investigation with multiple agencies involved. We want the public to understand that this was not a random act of violence, and we are pursuing every lead.”

The Waterbury Police Department is working in conjunction with the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Connecticut State Police.

Fire Breaks Out Amid Chaos

Adding to the confusion, a fire erupted in the food court area of the mall roughly two hours after the shooting. Fire crews responded and extinguished the blaze, but questions remain about whether the fire was connected to the shooting or a separate incident entirely. The cause is under investigation by the Waterbury Fire Marshal’s Office.

Eyewitness Accounts: “It Was Like a War Zone”

Several witnesses provided firsthand accounts of the terrifying moments when shots rang out:

Janelle Martinez, who was shopping with her two children, recounted:

“We were by the escalators when we heard pops—maybe six or seven shots. Everyone just ran. I grabbed my kids and ran into a store, and the employees locked us in the back room.”

Trevor Johnson, a mall security guard on duty, described the initial panic:

“As soon as the first shots went off, I called dispatch. Within two minutes, police were already on the scene. I’ve never seen anything like that. It was like a war zone.”

Others reported hearing screaming, store gates slamming shut, and children crying as shoppers rushed for exits or found shelter wherever they could.

Brass Mill Center: A Community Landmark

The Brass Mill Center is a well-known shopping and entertainment venue in Waterbury, featuring major retail chains, a movie theater, and a diverse food court. Opened in 1997, the mall has long served as a central gathering place for residents of Waterbury and neighboring communities.

However, concerns about public safety have arisen in recent years, with sporadic incidents of violence prompting calls for increased security.

Community and Official Response

City and state officials have expressed deep concern and a commitment to ensuring justice and restoring safety to the mall and the wider community. Governor Ned Lamont issued a statement late Tuesday evening:

“Our thoughts are with those injured in this tragic incident. I want to thank the Waterbury Police and emergency responders for their rapid and courageous response. My administration will support the city in every way possible to bring those responsible to justice and ensure such violence does not recur.”

Waterbury Mayor Neil O’Leary held a press briefing alongside Police Chief Spagnolo, assuring residents that a full investigation is underway:

“This is not the type of violence we tolerate in our city. The safety of our residents and visitors is paramount, and we will not rest until all those involved are brought to justice.”

Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal

As of Wednesday, investigators continue to gather physical evidence, including shell casings and security footage. Digital forensics teams are analyzing potential connections between the suspect and victims. Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Anyone with tips related to the shooting is asked to contact the Waterbury Police Department’s Detective Bureau at 203-574-6941.

Chief Spagnolo added:

“Even small details can be vital. If you were at the mall and saw something unusual, or if you recorded video or audio, please reach out. Your information could make a difference.”

Impact on the Community

The incident has left the Waterbury community shaken. Local advocacy groups and clergy are calling for peace, dialogue, and increased support for youth intervention programs. The Brass Mill Center remained closed through Wednesday as investigators completed a thorough sweep of the building.

Reverend Marcus Bellamy of the Grace Tabernacle Church commented:

“Our hearts go out to the victims and their families. We must come together not only to heal but to address the root causes of violence in our community—poverty, conflict resolution, lack of opportunity.”

Conclusion

The targeted shooting at the Brass Mill Center on May 27 has renewed conversations about public safety, mental health, and the role of community engagement in preventing violence. As five victims recover from their injuries and police continue their work, Waterbury stands at a crossroads—facing both the trauma of this event and the opportunity to unite for a safer future.

Updates on the identities of the victims, potential charges, and further developments are expected in the coming days.