News Summary
A shooting incident at Spartanburg’s WestGate Mall on May 2 left three people injured, prompting the arrest of a 19-year-old man. Authorities are investigating the causes of the altercation that led to the gunfire. The injuries sustained are non-life-threatening, and further details on the scenario are being sought from the public.
Spartanburg, South Carolina – A shooting incident at the WestGate Mall left three people injured and resulted in the arrest of a 19-year-old man on May 2. The injuries sustained by those involved are reported to be non-life-threatening, and the authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event.
Altavion Deshaun Meadows has been taken into custody and charged with unlawful carrying of a pistol and for carrying a firearm in an area where concealed weapons are prohibited. The incident unfolded around 6:40 p.m. on Friday evening when two groups, engaged in an altercation, entered the mall near the food court. The conflict quickly escalated into gunfire when one member of the group began shooting.
The three individuals who sustained injuries include two participants from the initial confrontation and an innocent bystander who was present in the food court. One of the injured parties was treated for a foot injury sustained during the shooting, while a fourth person was injured after hitting their hand against an object while trying to flee.
In response to the shooting, officers from the Spartanburg Police Department and deputies from the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office arrived on the scene promptly. The mall and surrounding businesses were secured, and employees were advised to go into lockdown as law enforcement began their investigation. Amidst the chaos, numerous shoppers fled for safety, and eyewitnesses described a scene of panic and confusion.
Authorities have detained two additional individuals in connection with the incident, although details regarding their involvement have not been disclosed. The police are actively seeking further information from the public to aid in their investigation. They have acknowledged and thanked the citizens who provided crucial information regarding the shooting incident.
The ongoing investigation aims to clarify the events leading up to the shooting and the dynamics between the groups involved. Assistant law enforcement personnel have expressed an urgency in gathering more eyewitness accounts and have encouraged anyone with additional information to contact them directly or reach out to Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIMESC.
This incident marks a concerning event in the local community, highlighting issues of public safety in crowded spaces like shopping malls. As urban centers continue to be gathering places for shopping and socializing, incidents involving gun violence raise alarms regarding the necessary precautions needed to ensure the safety of patrons.
Law enforcement officials are dedicated to ensuring that such incidents are dealt with swiftly and that those responsible face justice. Community members are also urged to stay alert and vigilant in public spaces, and to report any suspicious activities to aid in maintaining security.
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HERE Resources
Two Arrests Made After Drive-By Shooting in Spartanburg County
Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Live Police Responding to Shooting at Westgate Mall
- Wikipedia: Spartanburg, South Carolina
- WYFF4: Spartanburg Police Suspect in Westgate Mall Shooting
- Google Search: Westgate Mall Shooting Spartanburg
- Hindustan Times: Westgate Mall Shooting – Spartanburg Police Respond
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shooting
- WSPA: Heavy Police Presence Near Westgate Mall
- Google News: Westgate Mall Spartanburg
