Three people lost their lives and ten others were wounded in a mass shooting outside the Mad Butcher grocery store in Fordyce, Arkansas, on Friday. Among the injured are two law enforcement officers whose conditions are not life-threatening, according to state police.

The Arkansas State Police responded swiftly to the incident at 11:38 a.m. local time. Upon arrival, officers were immediately engaged in a gunfight with the lone suspect. Video footage from the scene shows a man in the parking lot wielding a shotgun and firing at officers, who returned fire.

The eight civilian victims sustained injuries ranging from minor to critically severe. Arkansas Department of Public Safety Director Mike Hagar assured the public during an afternoon briefing that the situation was contained and there were no further threats to the community.

The suspect, identified as 44-year-old Travis Eugene Posey of New Edinburg, Arkansas, was apprehended after being treated for non-life-threatening injuries sustained during the shootout. Posey faces three counts of capital murder.

Witnesses described the chaos and fear that unfolded. David Rodriguez, who was at a nearby gas station, initially mistook the gunfire for fireworks. He quickly realized the gravity of the situation as he saw people fleeing and heard sirens. Rodriguez captured the aftermath on his cellphone, describing the scene as terrifying.

Ken Vanderzwalm, who works at a lawn mower supplier nearby, recounted how people ran into his shop in panic. A former police officer, Vanderzwalm reassured those seeking refuge that they were safe inside. He noted the traumatic impact on many children present during the incident.

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders expressed her condolences and gratitude to first responders via social media, commending their quick and heroic actions. She assured the public of her ongoing communication with state police.

The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) dispatched agents from their New Orleans field office to assist with the investigation. The White House also released a statement praising the bravery of law enforcement officers who neutralized the threat and took the suspect into custody.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event, local and federal authorities continue their investigation to understand the motive behind the attack and prevent future occurrences.