On Friday, July 25, 2025, law enforcement officials responded to a report of shots fired at the Holyoke Mall in Holyoke, Massachusetts, prompting a significant police presence and the temporary evacuation of the shopping center.
The Holyoke Police Department reported that officers were dispatched to the mall, located at 50 Holyoke St., around 4:40 p.m. following reports of gunfire near the entrance to Round One, a bowling and arcade entertainment venue within the complex.
As the incident unfolded, fire alarms were triggered, and witnesses described scenes of panic as shoppers rushed toward exits and several stores lowered their security gates. A former photographer for WWLP-22News reported hearing what they believed to be gunshots, contributing to the chaotic atmosphere.
Authorities have confirmed that no injuries or deaths occurred during the incident, and no innocent bystanders were harmed.
A suspect was swiftly taken into custody, according to the Holyoke Police Department. As of now, the identity of the suspect has not been released, and officials have not confirmed whether a firearm was recovered at the scene.
Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia addressed the incident in a statement posted on Facebook at approximately 5:35 p.m., stating, “There was a shooting incident that took place at the Holyoke Mall. The situation currently is under control and under investigation. I will be reporting soon with more details as it becomes available. Please standby.” He later added that there was “no ongoing threat, no innocent bystander injuries or death,” and confirmed the mall’s temporary evacuation.
The Holyoke Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in Western Massachusetts with nearly 150 stores and restaurants, was closed for the remainder of the evening out of an abundance of caution. Authorities have stated that the mall is expected to reopen on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
The Holyoke Police Department, in collaboration with the Massachusetts State Police, is leading the ongoing investigation. Officials have not yet disclosed details regarding the motive or circumstances surrounding the incident.
Mayor Garcia and Holyoke Police Chief Brian Keenan held a press conference at the Holyoke Police Department at 8 p.m. on Friday to provide further updates, emphasizing that the situation was contained and there was no ongoing threat to public safety.
Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the Holyoke Police Department to assist with the investigation.
