A shooting inside Wheaton Mall in Montgomery County left a 13-year-old boy injured Friday night, with surveillance footage capturing the terrifying moments as shoppers fled for safety.
The 17-year-old suspect, dressed entirely in black with a hoodie covering his head, sat at a table inside the mall before launching the attack. Video footage posted to social media shows shoppers walking calmly through the mall moments before the violence erupted.
When a group of teenagers walked past his position, the suspect suddenly stood and aimed a handgun at them, firing multiple shots. Screams echoed through the mall as shoppers scattered in all directions, seeking cover from the gunfire.
A single bullet struck the 13-year-old victim in his leg, according to police. Emergency responders transported the boy to a local hospital, where medical staff treated him for injuries that authorities described as non-life-threatening. No other individuals were wounded in the incident.
The shooter attempted to flee the scene following the attack, but an armed security guard intervened and physically detained him until law enforcement officers arrived. Police took the 17-year-old into custody, and charges are currently pending against him.
Investigators have not disclosed a motive for the shooting. The incident marks another episode of gun violence in a public space, raising concerns about safety in shopping centers where families and young people gather.
The swift action by mall security prevented the suspect from escaping and potentially posed further danger to the community. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine what led to the Friday night attack.
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Ava Hart
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