OCALA, Fla. - A man was tragically killed in a shooting at Paddock Mall in Ocala, Florida, two days before Christmas. Police have classified the incident as a "targeted act of violence," where the victim was specifically singled out for the attack. A woman also sustained a gunshot wound to the leg but is expected to recover.

The Ocala Police Chief, Mike Balken, addressed the media on Saturday evening, revealing that the victim was shot multiple times in a common area of the mall, located approximately 79 miles (127 kilometers) northwest of Orlando. The suspect fled the scene and abandoned the firearm.

Authorities received a distress call reporting multiple shots fired at the mall around 3:40 p.m. Promptly responding to the call, police officers quickly confirmed that it was not an active shooter situation but rather a targeted attack. Several other shoppers suffered injuries during the incident, including one individual experiencing chest pain and another sustaining a broken arm.

The Ocala police department has released photos of a person of interest captured by the mall's security cameras. The depicted male dons a red cap and dark clothing, and initial reports described the suspect as wearing a hooded sweatshirt and a partially covered mask. Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any mobile phone videos or additional information related to the shooting.

The corporate owner of Paddock Mall, WPG, has yet to provide any further details in response to the incident. The shopping center, which houses numerous stores, including J.C. Penney and Foot Locker, remains an active crime scene as law enforcement officials carry out their investigation.

Eyewitnesses Calvin and Diana Amos, who were inside J.C. Penney at the time of the shooting, described their swift evacuation and expressed their fear and apprehension towards the incident. The safety of mall patrons is of paramount concern as the community rallies together to support those affected by this tragic event.

Local authorities are working diligently to apprehend the suspect and bring justice to the victims and their families. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Ocala Police Department immediately.