Detectives are investigating after an officer responding to a shoplifting call exchanged gunshots near an entrance to a Massachusetts shopping mall on Friday afternoon. The incident began around 4:30 p.m., when a security guard contacted officers about the alleged shoplifting, according to a statement issued by Holyoke Police Chief Brian Keenan and Mayor Joshua A. Garcia. “When the officers approached the suspect near the entrance of Round One, the suspect produced a firearm. The preliminary investigation shows that both the suspect and one officer discharged their firearms,” the officials wrote.The suspect, who was not identified because of his age, was shot in the leg. Officials said that police provided first aid until the suspect was taken to a local hospital for treatment.The officer was not hit. Holyoke officials said the shooting will be investigated by local detectives and Massachusetts State Police. The mall was evacuated but will reopen on Saturday.”I do want to make it clear that while this incident can cause fear, the Holyoke Mall is a safe place to shop and visit. We have officers here to deal with incidents like this and ensure that the public is safe. No innocent bystanders were harmed during this incident,” said Keenan. “If you see anything suspicious while at the mall, or anywhere in our city, please do not hesitate to call 911 as our officers are here to protect our citizens and visitors.”
Detectives are investigating after an officer responding to a shoplifting call exchanged gunshots near an entrance to a Massachusetts shopping mall on Friday afternoon.
The incident began around 4:30 p.m., when a security guard contacted officers about the alleged shoplifting, according to a statement issued by Holyoke Police Chief Brian Keenan and Mayor Joshua A. Garcia.
“When the officers approached the suspect near the entrance of Round One, the suspect produced a firearm. The preliminary investigation shows that both the suspect and one officer discharged their firearms,” the officials wrote.
The suspect, who was not identified because of his age, was shot in the leg. Officials said that police provided first aid until the suspect was taken to a local hospital for treatment.
The officer was not hit.
Holyoke officials said the shooting will be investigated by local detectives and Massachusetts State Police.
The mall was evacuated but will reopen on Saturday.
“I do want to make it clear that while this incident can cause fear, the Holyoke Mall is a safe place to shop and visit. We have officers here to deal with incidents like this and ensure that the public is safe. No innocent bystanders were harmed during this incident,” said Keenan. “If you see anything suspicious while at the mall, or anywhere in our city, please do not hesitate to call 911 as our officers are here to protect our citizens and visitors.”
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