Washington Commanders senior vice president of media and content Julie Donaldson. Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Commanders’ Julie Donaldson details hiding in store after shooting at Virginia mall

Originally posted on DC Sports King
By King W. Motley III | Last updated 6/19/22

Shots were fired at Tysons Corner mall in Fairfax, Virginia Saturday afternoon. A man pulled out a gun and opened fire on the second floor walkways following a fight between two groups, according to NBC4 Washington.

Initially no one appeared to have been shot. But, three people were injured and taken to local hospitals as patrons fled from inside the mall. Police cleared the mall and told people to shelter in place as they awaited more police to assess the situation for an active shooter.

Among those inside the mall during the shooting was Washington Commanders senior vice president of media & content Julie Donaldson.

Donaldson described the hectic scene on Twitter in the aftermath, saying she was just “feet” from the gunshots.

I was at the mall today when a group of men ran past me almost knocking me over. I heard them yell “There he is!” and 2 seconds later feet from me about 4 gun shots. I don’t even know what store I hid in. I’m not a dramatic person, but this has me shook. Police responded quickly.
— Julie Donaldson (@juliedonaldson_) June 18, 2022

I’m amazed how the human body reacts. I’m grateful for the officers courage to run in & respond quickly. I’m overwhelmed by strangers that saw me shook & offered comfort. I’m grateful it wasn’t worse as we live in a day where there is much fear of gun violence. I pray for peace.
— Julie Donaldson (@juliedonaldson_) June 18, 2022

Donaldson oversees the entire broadcast and editorial operation within the Commanders’ organization. She also serves as an analyst on the team’s game day radio broadcast.

She was clearly shaken by the horrifying event. Good thing there were fellow patrons who made an effort to calm her during the ordeal. Her details of her experience were frightening.

Fortunately no one was shot and hopefully those injured will make a fast recovery. The growing number of mass shootings in America has been at the forefront.

Ultimately, Saturday’s Tysons Corner shooting didn’t escalate and add to the nearly 300 mass shootings this year alone in the U.S. But, it could have. For those that were there, including Donaldson, they may not ever view going to the mall the same.

This article first appeared on DC Sports King and was syndicated with permission.

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