Panic at Opry Mills Mall as False Shooting Reports Cause Chaos

Law enforcement officers rushed to Opry Mills Mall on Friday following widespread reports of an active shooter. However, Metro Nashville Police have confirmed that no shooting occurred.

According to authorities, the chaos began when a woman entered the Chili’s restaurant inside the mall and started a physical altercation with a male employee, who is believed to be her boyfriend. “Detectives have found no evidence of a weapon being involved in this incident,” Metro Police stated.

Despite this, panic quickly spread throughout the mall, with shoppers fleeing and traffic snarling as drivers attempted to exit the area. Witnesses described scenes of confusion and fear.

“We were sitting by the food court when people suddenly started running. Someone shouted about a shooter, and we just ran,” said one mall visitor.

Emergency responders treated several individuals for minor injuries sustained in the rush to evacuate. The Nashville Fire Department reported that some people fell on the asphalt while attempting to escape. Others were assessed for anxiety-related symptoms but did not require hospitalization.

Authorities say the mall remains on lockdown as officers conduct a room-by-room search to ensure safety. Investigators are still trying to determine how the situation escalated so rapidly, leading to mass panic.

Metro Nashville Police have noted that heightened public sensitivity to recent violent incidents may have contributed to the confusion.

The entrance to Opry Mills Drive from Bradley Parkway remains closed, with emergency vehicles still stationed at the scene. Significant traffic congestion was reported on nearby interstates as well.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.