Three people have been killed and two injured after a human opened fire on a food court in the US state of Indiana on Sunday.
The man entered Greenwood Park Mall and began firing at the crowds before he was shot dead by a 22-year-old armed bystander, according to police.
One of the wounded was a 12-year-old girl who sustained a minor injury, the Indianapolis Star has reported.
READ MORE: Coins you could pick up on your European holidays that are worth thousands
Indiana is known for having some of the most relaxed gun laws among US states and just this month scrapped the need for those wanting to carry a handgun to need a permit even if it is concealed.
Speaking of the incident, Indianapolis Assistant Chief of Police Chris Bailey said: "We are sickened by yet another type of incident like this in our country."
Greenwood Police Department Chief Jim Ison commended the bystander for his actions praising him as the "real hero".
He said: "The real hero of the day is the citizen that was lawfully carrying a firearm in that food court and was able to stop the shooter almost as soon as he began."
Officers rushed to the mall at around 6pm local time after the alarm was raised.
Authorities searched the mall for other victims, but it is believed the shooting was contained to the food court.
US Senator Todd Young, a Republican from Indiana, tweeted: "Terrible news tonight in my home county. Praying for the victims of a shooting at the Greenwood Park Mall.
"Thank you to our law enforcement officers who responded."
Greenwood Mayor Mark Myers asked for "prayers to the victims and our first responders".
"This tragedy hits at the core of our community," he added in a statement.
READ NEXT:
Peculiar scene as €50 notes scattered along Irish quay as gardai issue warning to public
Urgent solar storm alert sparks Ireland blackout fears as huge flare heads towards Earth
Ex-Penneys worker explains the ‘one thing’ you should avoid when shopping in-store
Cheapest time to use your washing machine each day to save money on energy bills during summer
Met Eireann issues crushing heatwave update as experts spot freak jet stream vortex
Get breaking news to your inbox by signing up to our newsletter.