Man Killed, Suspect Arrested in Vancouver Mall Halloween Shooting

A deadly shooting on Halloween night at the Vancouver Mall in Vancouver, Washington, left one man dead and two others injured, sparking terror among families attending a trick-or-treat event. Authorities described the incident as a targeted attack, though its occurrence amid a family gathering intensified the distress for many witnesses.

Around 7:30 p.m., Vancouver police received reports of a disturbance inside the mall, which quickly escalated as gunshots echoed through the crowded hallways. Frightened parents and children scrambled for cover, seeking refuge in nearby stores, behind counters, and in restrooms. Witnesses later recounted moments of hiding, fearing the worst as law enforcement worked to secure the area.

The shooting claimed the life of Jahar Perez, while two other men, aged 30 and 40, sustained injuries but were later released from the hospital. Vancouver police identified the suspect as 32-year-old Travis Ward, who was arrested on Saturday after police received a tip about his whereabouts. With assistance from a SWAT team, authorities located Ward hiding in a Vancouver residence, where he surrendered without incident. Ward now faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder and two counts of first-degree assault.

Ward was allegedly wearing a Halloween mask during the shooting, further intensifying public concern as his presence disrupted the festive, family-friendly event. Parents and children, anticipating an evening of celebration, instead found themselves in a harrowing scene of violence and fear. Vancouver police extended thanks to community members who came forward with crucial information, particularly through social media, which helped law enforcement locate Ward.

Initially, detectives had sought the cooperation of two women present at the mall during the shooting. The women were identified and questioned, but police clarified that they were not suspects, and both fully cooperated with the investigation.

As detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, Vancouver police have assured the public of their ongoing commitment to safety. The swift response and cooperation between the community and law enforcement underscore the importance of vigilance and shared responsibility in public safety efforts. The Halloween night tragedy has left Vancouver residents shaken, prompting authorities to increase their focus on preventative measures in public spaces.

The Vancouver Police Department is encouraging anyone with additional information to come forward, emphasizing that every detail could aid in fully understanding the incident’s origins and motives, and help prevent future tragedies.