Police are investigating the shooting at Washington State Mall where a gunman fled the scene after killing five people the night of Sept. 23.
The suspect was seen on the blurry surveillance footage at the Cascade Mall in Burlington, where after a few minutes he opened fire inside a Macy’s department store.
“This is a senseless act,” Burlington Mayor Steve Sexton said.
When the officers arrived at the scene they helped employees and shoppers at the scene seek shelter and exit Macy’s while the officers searched for the suspect. At the time authorities did not know the suspect had already fled the scene on foot. The authorities were unaware of the suspect's identity but believed he is in his 20s or 30s and is Hispanic. At the time of the shooting the suspect was dressed in a dark t-shirt and a pair of shorts.
"We have very little information right now," Axtman said. "We're still trying to gather as many witnesses as we can to get more information.”
Detectives have interviewed over 20 people and have searched the media for tips. Officials reached out to the public for help in bringing the shooter to justice. Since then, the shooter was located and arrested.
Victims who were killed were four women and one man who suffered from critical injuries whom later died. Due to privacy of the investigation, the victims names are unknown. The names will not be released to the public until the autopsies are completed.
Officials believe that this act is not connected to terrorism and that the suspected gunman acted alone. Officials understand the public is in fear and have advised the public on a few safety measures they can take in case they come into contact with the suspect.
"I'd be extremely diligent and careful if you come in contact with the suspect," Washington State Sgt. Mark Francis warned in a Friday night news conference. "Stay indoors, stay secure."