Lafayette Man Arrested After Evacuation of Acadiana Mall Amid Active Shooter Report
A Lafayette man was taken into custody following an active shooter scare that prompted the evacuation of the Acadiana Mall on Thursday evening.
The Lafayette Police Department (LPD) responded to a report at approximately 5:30 p.m. of an individual allegedly armed with a firearm inside the mall on Johnston Street, according to LPD spokesperson Matthew Benoit.
The report triggered a swift response from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office and Louisiana State Police. Officers conducted thorough sweeps of the mall’s interior and exterior but found no evidence of an armed individual, Benoit confirmed.
Social media speculation suggested gunshots had been heard during the incident. However, Benoit clarified that there was no confirmation of shots fired. He explained:
“Officers have no information confirming that shots were fired during the incident. During the evacuation, several businesses began closing their roll-down security doors, creating loud slamming sounds throughout the building, accompanied by people yelling and fleeing the area.”
Investigators later identified Gregory Stevens, 38, as a person of interest. Stevens, a former mall security guard who was terminated and banned from the property in December, had entered the mall Thursday evening. Witnesses reported Stevens was acting erratically, raising alarm among shoppers.
Stevens was subsequently apprehended at a residence on Pleasant View Drive. He was booked into custody on charges of terrorizing, trespassing, and an active warrant for possession of a stolen firearm.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation is ongoing. LPD reassured the public that there is no continuing threat and commended the swift response of law enforcement for ensuring the safety of mall patrons and employees.
Officials urge the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
