ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) - Two months after a gunman killed dozens inside an Orlando nightclub, the sound of popping balloons prompted shoppers to frantically flee an Orlando mall, injuring nine.
Orange County Sheriff's Officials spokeswoman Deputy Rose Silva tells news outlets there was no gunman at the Florida Mall. The loud sounds were actually from six large balloons being popped as part of an industry-standard inspection for the grand opening of former 'NSync singer Joey Fatone's new restaurant.
Deputies say an announcement was made on the PA system informing shoppers and employees that the test was about to be conducted, but the loud noises still caused people to run.
Orange County Fire and Rescue officials say nine people were treated at the scene, including four who were hospitalized for minor injuries.
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