Gunman at large after mall killings

Police were last night searching for a gunman who opened fire in the makeup department of a Macy’s store at a mall in Burlington, about 100km north of Seattle, killing four females.

Spokesman Mark Francis said investigators were seeking a Hispanic man wearing black and armed with a rifle.

‘‘We are still actively looking for the shooter,’’ Francis said. ‘‘Stay indoors, stay secure.’’

Authorities say the motive for the shooting – which also left a male critically wounded – was unknown.

The deadly shooting happened in the Cascade Mall in Burlington, Washington, about 100km north of Seattle. Francis said the man used a hunting rifle.

Witness Tari Caswell said she was in a Macy’s dressing room when she heard what sounded like balloons popping.

‘‘I heard a lady yelling for help, and a man came and got me and another lady, and we ran out of the store.’’

Another witness, Stephanie Bose, said she immediately locked the doors of her restaurant after hearing about the shooting from an employee’s boyfriend.

‘‘He was trying to go to the mall and people were screaming. It was frantic.’’

Following the Governor Jay Inslee had struck the state.

‘‘We urge residents to heed safety and detour warnings.

‘‘Stay close to your friends and loved ones as we await more information and, hopefully, news of the suspect’s capture.’’ shootings, said tragedy all

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REUTERS Police and emergency services workers gather outside the Cascade Mall in Burlington after four people were shot dead.