Police in Washington state are searching for one suspect after responding to a shooting at a grocery store on Monday afternoon that authorities say led to the death of at least one person and the injury of another.
Richland Police Department said it responded to a call of shots fired at the Richland Fred Meyer at 101 Wellsian Way at approximately 11:03 a.m., according to a statement. Police are now searching for a suspect that they described as a white male who left the store and is considered “armed and dangerous.”
One victim has died, and another is in the hospital with injuries following the incident, according to police.
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FBI Seattle field office spokesperson Steve Bern confirmed to the Washington Examiner that the bureau is assisting local law enforcement in “locating and identifying the individual responsible.”
Police said they are unsure if the suspect left on foot or by vehicle at this time.
“This is still an active scene. Please continue to avoid the area. The suspect has not been located,” Richland police wrote earlier on Facebook.
Neighboring first responders were also called to the scene, and at least two schools went into lockdown, a local CBS affiliate reported.
“The entire Fred Meyer family offers our thoughts, prayers, and support to all affected individuals and families during this difficult time,” a Fred Meyer spokesperson said in an email to the Washington Examiner.
The spokesperson said that Fred Meyer is working with law enforcement who have “secured the store and parking lot,” adding, “The store will remain closed while the police investigation continues, and we have initiated counseling services for our associates.”
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Police have asked residents in the area to avoid the scene.
This is a developing story.
