Hoover PD: One arrest made in fatal shooting at Riverchase Galleria, others sought
UPDATE: Sunday, July 5th: Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis says a suspect has been arrested in the shooting death of Royta Giles, Jr.
The suspect was identified as Montez Coleman, 22, of Birmingham. Coleman is in the Jefferson County Jail at this time, charged with Capital Murder and three counts of Assault 2nd Degree.
Hoover Police say a verbal argument between a group of males lead up to shots being fired between multiple armed people. All four gunshot victims were innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire. The injured victims were treated and released.
Hoover Police continue to search for four other suspects, possibly five other suspects at this time.
Hoover Police released these security camera images, taken at the Riverchase Galleria.
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UPDATE: Saturday, July 4: The Riverchase Galleria will remain closed Sunday, July 5th, according to the shopping center's public relations spokesperson.
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UPDATE: Hoover police say an 8-year-old boy has died after being shot at the Riverchase Galleria Friday afternoon. Three others, including a man, woman and juvenile girl, were injured in the shooting and are being treated at local hospitals.
The child killed in the shooting has been identified as Jonesboro Elementary School student Royta Giles Jr.
"Our hearts are simply broken at the tragic loss of Royta," Bessemer City Schools Superintendent Dr. Autumn Jeter said in a statement. "We are here for the family in every way possible, and we ask that everyone lifts the mother, family, and our school community in your prayers. This is tough."
Detectives continue their efforts to collect evidence and identify possible suspects. Anyone with information about this shooting is urged to contact the Hoover Police Department at one of the following numbers:
- Hoover Police 911 Center: 205-822-5300
- Sergeant Matt Savage 205-739-6780
- Sergeant Daniel Lowe 205-739-6762
To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
The mall will be closed on Friday as an investigation continues.
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Hoover Police report at least four people were injured in Friday's shooting at the Riverchase Galleria.
Hoover PD says two of the four victims were transported to UAB. The conditions and identities of all four people are unkn0wn at this time.
The police department says calls were made to 911 around 3:18 p.m. reporting shots fired near the food court in the mall. Authorities do not know what led up to the shooting.
The Riverchase Galleria released the following statement shortly after the shooting:
"We are heartbroken by the tragic, senseless incident that took place in our shopping center this afternoon. Riverchase Galleria was evacuated immediately and will remain closed while the Hoover Police Department conducts their investigation. There is no additional information available at this time and ask that all questions be directed to the Hoover Police Department. The shopping center will remain closed tomorrow, July 4."
Hoover Police ask for anyone with information on the shooting to call 205-254-7777.
Stay tuned for more information. Watch LIVE coverage on WVTM 13 and here.