Killeen, TX – The Killeen Police Department is actively investigating a disturbing incident that unfolded at the Killeen Mall on Saturday evening. The event, which led to five people being injured, began at approximately 5:00 p.m. when a Texas State Trooper attempted to stop a black pickup truck driven by a suspected drunk driver.
According to authorities, the driver of the vehicle, attempting to evade arrest, entered the Killeen Mall and crashed through the glass doors of the JCPenney store, striking four individuals inside. As the driver continued to flee, driving through the store, both the Texas Trooper and a Killeen Police officer pursued him on foot.
In response to the escalating situation, officers from the Killeen Police Department, the Department of Public Safety, and three other agencies engaged in gunfire to eliminate the threat posed by the driver. Tragically, the driver was the only fatality, though five people sustained injuries ranging from serious to minor. The injured victims were immediately transported to a local hospital, with one additional individual arriving later that evening seeking treatment for injuries linked to the incident.
Killeen Mayor Debbie Nash-King addressed the community following the incident, offering her condolences to those affected. “Our city has experienced a profoundly troubling incident that has shaken our community. My heart goes out to those injured during the tragic events at the Killeen Mall, and my thoughts and prayers are with them and their families,” she said in a statement released on Saturday night.
The mayor expressed gratitude to the law enforcement officers and first responders who acted swiftly to end the threat and protect the public. “We are grateful to the first responders and law enforcement officers who acted swiftly and courageously to ensure the safety of our citizens and bring the threat to an end,” Mayor Nash-King said.
In her statement, the mayor reassured residents that both the Texas Rangers and the Department of Public Safety are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. “Killeen is strong, and together, we will support those impacted by this tragedy and move forward united,” she added. “Please keep the injured and their families in your prayers and let us continue to uplift one another during this time.”
At this time, no other details have been released regarding the identities of those involved or the specific circumstances leading up to the incident. Authorities continue to investigate, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
This incident has left the Killeen community in shock, as local leaders and residents come together to support the victims and their families during this challenging time.
