A tragic incident unfolded at a Florida mall just two days before Christmas, resulting in one fatality and another person injured in what authorities believe was a targeted shooting.

The Paddock Mall in Ocala became the scene of the apparent targeted shooting on Saturday afternoon. The victim, identified as 40-year-old David Nathaniel Barron, was found dead in a common area of the mall. Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken stated during a press briefing that Barron was believed to be the intended target.

A woman was also shot and sustained injuries but was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening conditions. Other injuries reported included chest pains and a broken arm.

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Authorities released an image of a person of interest in connection to the shooting. A firearm believed to have been used in the incident was recovered at the scene.

Amid the holiday season, the Paddock Mall, bustling with shoppers, was evacuated after the gunfire erupted. Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken expressed the profound tragedy of the situation, emphasizing the impact of such an incident during the holiday season.

Eyewitness accounts described chaos and panic as shoppers sought safety. One witness, Syriah Williams, recounted taking cover in a store after hearing gunshots.

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Jennifer Hunt Murty, owner of the Ocala Gazette, described being in close proximity to the gunfire as she volunteered at a gift-wrapping station. Despite the fear and uncertainty, she took immediate action, contacting the police chief and providing crucial information to assist in responding to the injured victims.

The mall, deeply affected by the traumatic event, announced its closure on Sunday and Monday. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. The incident has left the community in shock and mourning during what is supposed to be a joyous time of the year.