A security officer was shot during a shoplifting incident at the Macy’s Pavilions store in Buckland Hills on Friday. Police are searching for a suspect. 

Also read: Why Andrew Tate has been reportedly banned from Instagram, Facebook

The shoping mall was placed under lockdown immediately after the shooting. It was reopened on 3 PM. The loss prevention officer was shot outside a Macy’s Pavilions store while attempting to take the suspect into custody around 12:20 PM, John Laughlin, Manchester Captain said. 

Also read: Mattapoisett boatyard fire: Buildings, boats, several cars in flames at Ned’s Point

“The security guard was alert and conscious and he was taken to the hospital. There is no update on his condition,” he said. However, the identity of the officer has not been revealed yet. 

“Police have no description of the shooter at this point,” Laughlin said.

Also read: Why Alec Baldwin was afraid Donald Trump supports would kill him

“We don’t know a lot of details,” he added.

“We are deeply saddened about the incident that took place today at Macy’s Pavilions at Buckland Hills. The safety of our customers and our colleagues is Macy’s top priority. We are working closely with the local police department on this investigation and defer all comments about the case to them per policy,” said Stephanie Jimenez, communications associate, Macy’s Inc. 

Also read: Finnish PM Sanna Marin defends dancing, takes drug test to clear herself

Several officers were canvassing Fairwood Inn and Suites and Homewood Suites Hilton in Manchester. The mall is off Buckland Hills Drive about 21/2miles north of downtown Manchester.

“Most officers had left the hotels by 3 p.m. More information is expected to be released in the next couple of hours,” Laughlin said.

Also read: Hillsborough shooting leaves 1 man dead: All you need to know

Several shoppers at the H&M store were locked near the dressing room for about 45 minutes. Amanda Bengston from South Windsor was one of them. She was shopping with friends. 

Talking to Channel 3, she said, “They locked us into the back room and they gave us the option tot leave but at that point there was nobody in the mall. It was right after it happened.