'Multiple Fatalities' Reported in Jacksonville, Florida Shooting, According to Mayor

Mayor Donna Deegan informed that a shooting occurred on Saturday afternoon in Jacksonville, Florida, resulting in multiple casualties. She confirmed that there were "multiple fatalities" and further information would be provided by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office shortly.

Deegan also spoke to Nova Scope News affiliate WJXT, revealing that the shooter had barricaded themselves inside a Dollar General store on Kings Road. It remained uncertain whether the victims were shot within the store or at a different location.

Eric Prosswimmer, the spokesperson for the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department, stated to Nova Scope News that the department was prepared to assist the victims but was unable to disclose the number of individuals injured.

Situated in northeast Florida, Jacksonville is approximately 35 miles south of the Georgia border. The vicinity surrounding the Dollar General store encompasses various churches and an apartment building across the street.

Edward Waters University, a historically Black private Christian school located less than a mile southeast of the store, issued a campus-wide stay-in-place order. Preliminary reports suggested that students, faculty, and staff were not involved.

The university's alert stated, "Our campus police have secured all campus facilities. Students are being kept in their residence halls through the afternoon until the scene is cleared."

This story is still developing and will be subject to updates.