Unidentified Male Employee in Mid‑20s and Unnamed Female in Her 30s Found Deceased After Saturday Evening Shooting at Jersey Gardens Mall – Large‑Scale Police Response, Investigation Ongoing

ELIZABETH, N.J. —
A harrowing shooting event unfolded shortly before 7 p.m. this past Saturday at the bustling Jersey Gardens Mall, as panicked 911 callers reported multiple shots inside the shopping center. Alarms blared, shoppers and staff scrambled for cover, and within moments, New Jersey State Police alongside Elizabeth Police officers stormed the premises. By the time law enforcement swept the area, two individuals had tragically lost their lives.

Victims and Immediate Response

• An unidentified male employee (mid-20s) was discovered in the food‑court vicinity with multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency responders pronounced him deceased at the location.
• An unnamed female in her 30s was found inside a clothing retailer along one of the main corridors. She also did not survive her injuries and was confirmed deceased before she could be taken to hospital.

Crime Scene and Security Measures

Officials acted swiftly to secure all mall exits and evacuate hundreds of individuals. Witnesses described a scene of chaos, with security alerts echoing overhead and patrons guided calmly by mall staff toward emergency exits. Nearby stores temporarily shuttered while law enforcement conducted a full sweep.

Law Enforcement Action and Investigation

Detectives and forensic teams have established a perimeter around both crime scenes—the food court and the female victim’s location—as part of a methodical evidence-gathering operation. Surveillance footage and eyewitness testimonies are being meticulously reviewed to reconstruct the events and identify any suspects involved.

Shooter Description and Potential Motive

Although no suspect has yet been apprehended, police are pursuing several leads that include possible motive, pre‑planned intent, or links to other incidents. Investigators urge anyone with information, surveillance footage, or dashcam recordings to contact the Elizabeth Police Department or New Jersey State Police tip line immediately.

Community Reaction and Mall Statement

Local businesses and shoppers have expressed shock and concern over safety in such a popular retail destination. Jersey Gardens Mall management issued a statement expressing deep sorrow and reaffirming their commitment to working closely with authorities. They also pledged to support staff and patrons through counseling services in the days ahead.

Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety Appeal

This investigation remains active and ongoing. Mall security protocols are under close review, and authorities are intensifying patrols in the surrounding area to provide assurance to the community. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to reach out via the established law enforcement hotlines or Crimestoppers anonymously.

Summary of Known Facts

• Time of Incident: Just before 7 p.m., Saturday evening
• Location: Jersey Gardens Mall, Elizabeth, New Jersey
• Victims: Unidentified male employee (mid-20s); unnamed female customer (30s)
• Response: Rapid intervention by multiple law enforcement agencies
• Current Status: Active investigation, no suspect yet in custody
• Public Appeal: Authorities requesting assistance from anyone with knowledge of the incident

As the investigation progresses, this incident remains a stark reminder of the vital importance of vigilance, preparedness, and cooperation in maintaining public safety in high-traffic community spaces. Further updates will be shared as new developments emerge.