Shooting at Chicago Ridge Mall unfounded, police investigating incident as a prank

A prank sparked multiple reports of shots fired Sunday night at the Chicago Ridge shopping center, south suburban authorities said.

In a Facebook post, the Chicago Ridge Police Department said that around 7:20 p.m., officers responded to shots fired at the shopping center, 444 Ridgeland Ave. Officers arrived at the scene and did not observe any signs of a shooting. , according to authorities. .

“Witnesses at the mall reported hearing a loud bang followed by several individuals running toward the exits,” police said in the Facebook post.

After an initial investigation, authorities determined the incident was a prank and there was “no indication” it involved gunshots. No injuries were reported, police said.

As of Sunday night, authorities were investigating and working to identify those responsible for the prank. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Chicago Ridge Police Department at 708-425-7831.