A heavy police presence flooded CF Chinook Centre in Calgary on Friday following reports of a shooting that prompted an immediate lockdown of the busy shopping mall.

Authorities have yet to release full details, but early information suggests an active shooter incident triggered a rapid response from multiple law enforcement units. Officers were seen securing entrances, clearing sections of the mall, and coordinating with emergency crews as the situation unfolded.

Inside the mall, witnesses described moments of fear and confusion as shoppers scrambled to find safety.

“People just started running,” one shopper said. “At first we didn’t know what was happening, but then someone yelled there was a shooter. Stores started closing their gates right away.”

Another witness recalled the urgency of the lockdown. “Security was telling everyone to get inside stores or stay low. It was really tense—you could feel the panic.”

Others reported hearing loud noises before police arrived. “We heard what sounded like bangs, and then everything went into chaos,” a bystander said. “Police came in fast and started moving people away from certain areas.”

Shoppers and employees have been instructed to shelter in place as officers continue to secure the building and search for any potential threats.

Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area around MacLeod Trail South while emergency responders remain on scene.

At this time, officials have not confirmed whether there are injuries or if a suspect has been apprehended. The situation remains active, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.