What I don't get is that no one--not even the 11-year Army veteran--was carrying concealed at the mall?!!
Washington is a shall issue state. I'm ALWAYS carrying at that mall. (And anywhere else that it's legal to do so.)
As usual the P-I's (Probably Incorrect) reporting is a bit off too. The food court is not in front of J.C. Penny's. It's at least 100 yards from J.C. Penny's to the hallway intersection that leads to the Food Court, which is another 100 yards further down that corridor.
If you live in a state that recognizes your Second Amendment right, by all means, avail yourself of the opportunity. Not just for the safety of yourself and your loved ones, but it's the duty of responsible citizens to contribute to the safety of their communities as well.
Not to go off half-cocked, but make sure that you are trained to use your side arm and don't go looking for a fight. Hopefully, you'll never have to draw a weapon in such a situation. But if it is warranted, be prepared.