Smash-and-grab robbery sparks false gunshot alarm at Riverside Square Mall
The suspect fled the scene and remains at large as of Tuesday afternoon.
A smash-and-grab robbery at Riverside Square Mall triggered a brief panic Tuesday afternoon after the sound of a jewelry display case being shattered was mistaken for gunfire.
Hackensack police responded to the mall after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting an active shooter inside the shopping center.
Officers determined that no shots had been fired.
Police said a suspect entered the Bloomingdale's department store, smashed a jewelry display case and stole several items.
The loud noise from the breaking glass caused shoppers and patrons throughout the mall to believe gunfire had erupted.
No injuries were reported.
The suspect fled the scene and remained at large Tuesday afternoon.
The mall resumed normal operations, and police said there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Hackensack police.
