Allen, Texas: Not Quite the Wild West (But There Was One Heck of a Shopping Spree Gone Wrong)
You might be here because you heard rumors of a six-shooter showdown on Main Street, or maybe whispers of a tumbleweed-filled dust-up at the local saloon. Well, hold your horses, partners, because Allen, Texas these days is a peaceful place. Except for that one time...
The Great Allen Mall Mishap (May 2023, Not to Be Confused with the Annual Chili Cook-Off)
Yep, you read that right. Back in May 2023, things got a little wilder than a steer at a rodeo in the otherwise delightful Allen Premium Outlets. A fella with more guns than manners decided to have himself a shopping spree of the worst kind. Let's just say, it wasn't on any coupon flyer.
Thankfully, a brave officer (think Wyatt Earp with a badge, but probably better dental hygiene) put a stop to the whole mess.
Now, the question on everyone's mind (besides "who wears a holster to the mall?"): how many folks got caught in the crossfire?
Here's the Lowdown (and Why You Shouldn't Panic Buy Canned Goods)
Here's the deal: Eight people, including the perpetrator, were sadly killed in this terrible incident. It was a real tragedy, and our thoughts go out to the victims and their families.
But Allen isn't exactly Dodge City. This was an isolated event, and the town is still a great place to visit. You can shop 'til you drop (without worrying about stray bullets), grab some delicious barbecue, or just relax and enjoy the Texas sunshine.
So ditch the chaps and spurs, folks. Allen is safe (and way more fun in flip-flops).
P.S. If you're looking for a real Wild West experience, maybe check out a local museum or hit up a rodeo. Just leave the six-shooters at home, okay?
