Suspect arrested in Black Friday mall shooting in California
SAN JOSE, Calif. (CNN, KYMA) - An arrest has been made in connection with a shooting that left three people injured at a Bay Area mall during the busy Black Friday holiday.
When gunshots sent thousands running for their lives inside Valley Fair Mall on Black Friday, some ended up about a block away on the front steps of a stranger's San Jose home.
Without hesitation, Martin Garcia and his wife Irene quickly turned their home into a place of refuge for the next six hours.
"The floor were just lined through the hallway, and in the living room everywhere, there was a space people wanted to take cover in case something was going to happen," Martin shared.
Some who unable to get to their cars stayed until midnight, praying and bonding over pizza. Panicked parents reunited with their children at the home.
"They come to our door, and it was really beautiful to see that. And, like, emotional to see that because, you know, as a parent, you that's your worst fear," Irene expressed.
Three days later, the San Jose Police Department (SJPD) says they've caught their suspect, a 17-year-old boy.
Investigators say he was on probation after trying to run from police with a loaded gun earlier this year. This time, police say he shot a gang rival at the mall and wounded two innocent shoppers.
"Our officers have a limited ability to prevent this kind of juvenile violence when our juvenile laws are so weak. The young offenders feel almost no fear of consequences. They bring guns into our malls and fire them indiscriminately," Chief Paul Joseph with SJPD.
The Garcias relieved to hear the alleged shooter is in custody and reflecting on how humanity still shined in moments of horror.
"It's sad to see the news about this young boy and the decision he made," Irene remarked.
"It was such a horrific thing. It was almost like a peaceful thing as well because people were here for a bad situation, but they were all kind of taking care of each other," Martin added.
