2 dead after shooting near Los Angeles university

At least two people were killed and dozens of others detained after a shooting broke out Friday night at a strip mall near a university campus in Los Angeles, reported Xinhua, quoting local media.

The shooting occurred shortly after 11 p.m. (0600 GMT) at University Plaza, a popular shopping center located about one block from California State University, Northridge, the New York Post reported Saturday.

Police responded after receiving reports of a large gathering and heard gunshots upon arrival, the report said.

Following the shooting, dozens of people were detained outside a building at the plaza. According to the report, many of those detained had been inside a nearby lounge at the time of the shooting.

Los Angeles Police Department Lt. Guy Golan described the pair of victims as a man and woman, both of whom are believed to be between the ages of 18 and 25, according to local TV station KTLA.

Golan said authorities were searching for another possible victim, KTLA reported, adding that police are continuing their investigation inside the venue and in the surrounding area.