Updated 11-23-2020
A 15-year-old boy was arrested Saturday night for what is being considered a pre-meditated shooting at the Mayfair Mall in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. There was an argument between two groups of teenagers which apparently led to the shooting. Four of the eight victims at the scene were innocent bystanders. The unnamed suspect was captured in a traffic stop. A weapon was recovered from the vehicle.
Wauwatosa Police Chief Barry Webber said the suspect escaped the scene by running out with other mall shoppers. His easy escape was aided by the erroneous report of the shooter being 20-30 years old.
The 1.2 million square foot mall took 7 tactical teams 6 hours to clear. Chief Barry also stated that most of the 8 shooting victims were recovering and had been released from the hospital.
~~~~
Wauwatosa, WI – An unidentified gunman opened fire on shoppers at the Mayfair Mall in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, seven miles west of Milwaukee, injuring 7 adults and 1 teenager. According to Mayor Dennis McBride, none of the injuries were life threatening.
As of the time of this writing the shooter remains at large. The police could not be sure if the shooter was hiding somewhere in the mall or if he had fled the scene. After a thorough search of the premises they’ve determined that he is no longer in the mall.
He is described as a white male in his twenties or thirties. Several news outlets reported the name of a potential suspect. However, the police categorically denied knowing who the shooter is. At this time, they do not have any leads and are seeking help from any witnesses who may have seen the shooter.
Minneapolis FBI agents were also on scene assisting local authorities.
A Mayfair Mall representative gave the following statement:
We are disheartened and angered that our guests and tenants were subject to this violent incident today. WE are thankful for our partners at the Wauwatosa Police Department and we are cooperating with them as their investigation develops. Mayfair is closed at this time.
According to authorities, a preliminary investigation has led them to believe that the shooting was not a random act, but was likely the result of an altercation. Police are working diligently to interview the numerous witnesses, as well as the victims.
This is an ongoing situation and will be updated as information becomes available.