Annapolis Mall Lockdown: Black Friday Incident Explained

Chaos at Annapolis Mall: What Happened on Black Friday?

Annapolis Mall in Maryland was thrown into chaos on November 28, 2025, when reports of an active shooter triggered a full lockdown during one of the busiest shopping days of the year. Initial social media posts claimed a shooter was inside the mall, sparking widespread panic and a heavy police response. However, subsequent witness accounts and official updates revealed a more nuanced picture of the incident.

The Incident: Gun Brandished, Not Fired

According to multiple witnesses, the incident began near the Macy's wing when a fight erupted over a limited-release sneaker release. During the altercation, one individual brandished a firearm but did not discharge it. The mere sight of the weapon caused immediate panic among shoppers, many of whom began shouting "shooter" and fleeing the scene. This prompted mall security to initiate a full lockdown, with stores closing gates and employees sheltering in place.

"My daughter just called from Annapolis Mall. Apparently there's a shooter in the mall??? Does anyone know anything???" - A concerned parent via Facebook.

Emergency vehicles, including police cars, ambulances, and fire trucks, quickly converged on the mall. Witnesses described seeing people running in tears, some reportedly climbing onto rooftops to escape perceived danger. One bystander noted a man sobbing in the parking lot as emergency services arrived.

Police Response and Official Clarification

While the initial reports sent shockwaves through the community, the Annapolis Police Department later clarified that no shots were fired during the incident. Authorities conducted thorough sweeps of the mall but found no evidence of an active shooter or injuries. The lockdown was lifted after approximately two hours, allowing the mall to resume normal operations.

Community Resilience: Holiday Events Continue

The incident occurred just as Annapolis Mall was gearing up for its holiday season, which includes family-friendly events like Santapolis, an immersive Santa experience, and the return of The Grinch for brunch and storytime sessions. The mall has also launched charitable initiatives, including a coat drive and Angel Tree program to support local families.

"Despite the scare, our commitment to providing a safe and joyful holiday experience remains unwavering," said a mall spokesperson. "We encourage the community to join us for our upcoming events, which celebrate the true spirit of the season."

For visitors planning to attend holiday events, the mall recommends checking their website for the latest updates and booking Santa photo appointments in advance to minimize wait times.

What We Know So Far

• No Shots Fired: Police confirmed no firearms were discharged during the incident.
• Origin: The disturbance stemmed from a fight over a sneaker release.
• Duration: The lockdown lasted about two hours.
• Impact: No injuries reported, but significant panic among shoppers.
• Resolution: Mall operations returned to normal by evening.

Looking Ahead

Annapolis Police continue to investigate the circumstances leading to the incident, though no arrests have been announced. Meanwhile, the mall's holiday calendar remains packed with activities, including live performances from local schools and sensory-friendly Santa visits for children with autism.

As the community recovers from the scare, the incident highlights the importance of staying informed during emergencies and the resilience of local businesses in maintaining a positive environment for shoppers.