Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: Tragedy Strikes Omaha Mall as Nine Killed

12/5/2025

49 5

Summary

Story summary

On December 5, 2007, Robert Hawkins, 19, opened fire in the Von Maur department store at Westroads Mall in Omaha, Nebraska, killing eight people and injuring five before taking his own life. This tragic event marked the deadliest mass shooting in Nebraska since 1958, deeply impacting the local community and raising concerns about gun violence.

1 of 1

Story summary

On December 5, 2007, Robert Hawkins, 19, opened fire in the Von Maur department store at Westroads Mall in Omaha, Nebraska, killing eight people and injuring five before taking his own life. This tragic event marked the deadliest mass shooting in Nebraska since 1958, deeply impacting the local community and raising concerns about gun violence.