GAINESVILLE, FL (352today.com) – The Gainesville Police Department (GPD) responded to a call around 6:30 p.m. on Friday at the Oaks Mall.
GPD Public Information Officer Brandon Hatzel says the initial call to the 911 center claimed there was a hostage situation at the mall which is located on Newberry Road.
Crews from GPD and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office responded and evacuated the building.
GPD says there’s no evidence a hostage situation occurred.
And they say third party reports of an active shooter are unfounded.
Hatzel says there are no reports of injuries.
As of 9:15 p.m., GPD crews were still on the scene finishing up the search and clearing the area.
According to the Oaks Mall website, the shopping center closes at 8 p.m. on Friday nights.
GPD asks the public to avoid the area.