New Delhi, Dec. 27 -- Reports of a possible active-shooter incident at a TJ Maxx outlet in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, spread rapidly across social media on Friday, prompting public anxiety and calls for prayer. As of publication, police and mall authorities have not confirmed the claims, leaving the situation unclear.

Multiple users on X (formerly Twitter) claimed to have heard gunfire inside the shopping centre housing TJ Maxx in Rocky Mount. One post described family members sheltering inside the store during what was alleged to be an unfolding emergency.

"My mom and my entire sisters family are barricaded inside closet of TJ MAXX in Rocky Mount, NC. There is a gunman firing!!! PLEASE PRAY FOR THEM!!"

Another message appealed for a...