Five people were shot at a mall in Waterbury, Connecticut Tuesday, when an argument escalated into a violent outburst from a gunman, according to authorities.

Gunshots rang out at the Brass Mill Center just before 4:40 p.m., hitting five people who were taken to area hospitals, WTNH reported, citing Waterbury Mayor Paul Pernerewski, Jr.

Cops said the bullets began to fly when an argument turned into a violent confrontation at the 1.1-million square-foot shopping complex with officials emphasizing at a press conference this was not a “random act of violence.” 

The suspect is described as a man in his 20s who used a semi-automatic pistol, NBC reported.

Police took a person of interest into custody late Tuesday night, according to the station.

Officials said at a press conference Tuesday night that they do not believe that the shooting was a “random act of violence.”

Video that appears to be taken from inside the mall circulating online showed one apparent gunshot victim screaming and writhing in pain outside of a store.

“I can’t move! I can’t move! Somebody help me!” the apparent victim wailed.

The extent of the victims’ injuries is not known at this time, but officials said there are no fatalities, NBC Connecticut reported.

Many people who were shopping when shots rang out sheltered in place throughout the massive mall, officials said.

“This afternoon there was a tragic mass shooting at the Bass Mill Center in Waterbury, a place where everyone should feel safe,” Democratic Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont wrote on X.

“Our hearts break for the Waterbury community, the victims, and their families who have been impacted by this incident,” the governor concluded.

Waterbury Police is coordinating with the Connecticut State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in the ongoing investigation.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.