A shooting at a crowded mall in Dallas, Texas, has left nine people dead, including Aishwarya Thatikonda, a 27-year-old Indian woman working as a project engineer in the US. The incident occurred on Saturday, May 6th, when Mauricio Garcia, a 33-year-old man, opened fire at the Allen Premium Outlets, killing at least eight people before being shot dead by police.
Eyewitnesses reported chaos and confusion as shoppers ran for cover, seeking refuge in nearby stores and businesses. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, with ambulances and police cars arriving within minutes of the first shots being fired. However, despite their best efforts, several victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while others were taken to hospital with serious injuries.
The motive for the shooting is still unclear, although authorities have ruled out terrorism as a factor. According to reports, Garcia had a history of mental health problems, and his family has said that he was struggling with depression and anxiety in the weeks leading up to the shooting.
The incident has reignited the debate over gun control in the United States, with many calling for stricter laws to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. President Biden has also issued a statement condemning the shooting and expressing his condolences to the families of the victims.
“The senseless and tragic shooting in Dallas is yet another reminder of the urgent need to take action to address the epidemic of gun violence in our country,” said President Biden. “We must do more to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals and ensure that our communities are safe and secure.”
The shooting has also sparked outrage and sadness among the Indian community in the US, many of whom are mourning the loss of Thatikonda, a talented young woman with a bright future ahead of her. Tributes have poured in on social media, with friends and colleagues describing her as a kind, intelligent, and hardworking individual who will be deeply missed.
“She was such a bright light in our lives, always full of energy and enthusiasm,” said one of Thatikonda’s friends. “We are heartbroken by her loss and will always cherish the memories we shared together.”
As the investigation into the shooting continues, authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward and assist in their efforts. Meanwhile, the families of the victims are left to grieve and try to make sense of the tragedy that has taken their loved ones from them.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims during this difficult time,” said a spokesperson for the Dallas police department. “We will do everything in our power to bring those responsible to justice and ensure that justice is served.”
