Police: 'No Immediate Threat' to Mall of Georgia

Buford, GA — Gwinnett County Police on Tuesday said they have identified a person who threatened to "shoot up" the Mall of Georgia and that they do not believe the mall is in immediate danger.

The threat was made in an online gaming chat room.

Someone who was in the chat room notified police about the threat on Monday. It specifically stated that the shooting would happen at 3 p.m. Tuesday.

Detectives were working Tuesday to determine whether criminal charges will be filed in the case.

"We commend the members of the community for coming forward to bring this threat to our attention," Gwinnett County Police spokeswoman Cpl. Michele Pihera said. "The safety of the people who work, shop, and do business with the Mall is the most important."

Police earlier reported that there were also statements made in the chat room about the number of people that were going to be shot and a reference to committing suicide after the shooting, police said in a news release.

"Due to the magnitude of the threats and an abundance of caution, Gwinnett County Police deployed undercover tactical resources within the Mall of Georgia," the release said. "There is also a visible uniform officer presence outside and inside of the mall. Citizens should expect high visibility patrols to continue for an undetermined period of time."

Early Tuesday afternoon, Gwinnett Police posted a message on Twitter making it clear that there was no active-shooter situation at Mall of Georgia — a response to rumors that were swirling on social media.

The mall remained open throughout the day. Police said individual stores were being given the option of closing.