ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Authorities in Anchorage are actively investigating a reported shooting inside the Walmart located at 3101 A Street on Sunday evening, which prompted a massive law enforcement response and widespread panic among shoppers.
According to early reports from Samdesk and Anchorage Police Department (APD), multiple gunshots were heard inside the store shortly after 6:30 p.m. Officers quickly arrived on scene, armed with long guns, and entered the building to secure the area and ensure the safety of customers and employees.
Chaos and Panic Inside the Store
Witnesses described moments of chaos as the sound of gunfire erupted inside the busy retail location. Shoppers ran for cover, ducking behind shelves and checkout counters as police rushed in. One witness reported hearing “at least four or five shots” before seeing people sprinting toward the exits in fear.
“I was in the electronics section when I heard the shots,” said an employee who asked not to be named. “Everyone dropped what they were doing and started running. It was terrifying.”
Emergency dispatchers received multiple 911 calls, and police quickly established a large perimeter around the store, blocking off nearby roads and urging residents to avoid the area.
One Person Transported to Hospital
Paramedics were seen transporting at least one individual on a stretcher to a waiting ambulance. While the person’s condition remains unconfirmed, witnesses say the victim appeared to have sustained injuries related to the shooting.
Authorities have not yet disclosed whether there are additional victims or if the injuries were life-threatening.
Police Response and Investigation
Anchorage Police officers conducted a sweep of the entire store, methodically clearing aisles and storage areas to ensure that no threats remained. Shoppers and employees were safely evacuated and directed to nearby parking lots while investigators began processing the scene.
As of late Sunday night, no suspect had been publicly identified, and officials have not confirmed whether anyone was taken into custody. APD spokespersons stated that detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to determine the sequence of events and identify those responsible.
“The safety of our residents is our top priority,” said an Anchorage Police spokesperson. “This remains an active investigation, and we are asking anyone who was inside the Walmart at the time or who may have video footage to contact detectives immediately.”
Community on Edge
The shooting has rattled the Anchorage community, marking yet another instance of gun violence in a public space. Walmart employees and customers alike have expressed shock, noting that the store is typically a calm and family-oriented environment.
“I can’t believe something like this happened here,” said one customer who had just left the store minutes before the incident. “You don’t expect to hear gunfire while buying groceries. It’s horrifying.”
Public Safety Advisory
Police are urging residents to avoid the area around 3101 A Street as the investigation continues. Traffic detours remain in place, and forensic teams are collecting evidence both inside and outside the store.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates once additional details are confirmed regarding the number of victims, possible suspect information, and motive.
Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact the Anchorage Police Department at (907) 786-8900 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at (907) 561-STOP (7867).
As the investigation unfolds, residents are left grappling with fear and uncertainty — but also gratitude that police responded quickly, preventing what could have been a far greater tragedy.
This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.
