Terrified shoppers took refuge in stores at a large mall in California after reports of gunfire and claims of an "active shooter".
Armed police raced to the Great Mall in Milpitas, south of San Francisco, and the building was locked down as staff and customers hid inside shops.
Police initially said they were responding to an "active situation" as workers and shoppers posted updates on social media, claiming there was an "active shooter" inside the mall.
Police confirmed the mall was in lockdown after a conflict but they have now clarified that "there is no indication a shooting occurred inside".
Terrified people posted selfies where they had locked themselves in shops.
One person tweeted: "We are locked and safe at great mall! Stay safe!!"
Another said: "Don’t go near great mall! there is a suspected active shooter and police is evacuating everyone to safety.
"Luckily we were near to the exit, we run as fast as we could and got out. Some of them are still taking cover in the stores now. Pray for them!"
Milpitas Police tweeted: "At about 5:30pm #MilpitasPD received a report of an altercation where someone brandished a knife.
"Shortly after a shooting was reported inside of Burlington Coat Factory. Officers have checked the business and there is no indication a shooting occurred inside."
Some local transport was also suspended with the rail station that serves that mall closed for a period of time, said VTA, the transport authority.
VTA tweeted: "Due to police activity at Great mall shopping center VTA light rail will not stop at the great Mall light rail station until further notice.
"Apologies for the inconvenience we will let you know when the service is back to normal as soon as possible."
