Gunfire inside Ocean County Mall: Teen shot in the face

🚨 A 17-year-old was shot in the face inside Ocean County Mall

🚨Suspect fled in a dark sedan and remains at large

🚨A teen was charged with attempted murder

TOMS RIVER — A 17-year-old was shot in the face on Wednesday night while sitting inside the  Ocean County Mall.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer said the teen was in a "common area" of the mall on Hooper Avenue when he was approached by someone trying to start a fight. around 8:10 a.m.

The suspect walked away, turned around and fired multiple shots at the teen. One shot hit the teen in the face. The shooting appears to be targeted, according to the prosecutor, who did not provide more details.

The victim was taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where he is listed in stable condition.

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Suspect description

The suspect fled the mall in a black or gray sedan and. Police radio audio posted by News 12 New Jersey said the suspect is a Black male wearing gray sweatpants and a sweatshirt.

Billhimer on Friday announced the arrest of a juvenile the same day who was also charged with possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and unlawful possession of a weapon. The suspect is being held at the Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center.

Toms River police told Jersey Shore Online the teen was shot near the mall's Applebee’s entrance.

Billhimer said there was no threat to the public. He asked anyone with information about the shooting to call 732-929-2027, extension 2746.

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