Teen suspects arrested in shooting of Marine at Beltway Plaza Mall
GREENBELT, Md. - Two teenagers are in custody, accused of an armed robbery and a shooting that occurred in the parking lot of the Beltway Plaza Mall in Greenbelt, according to police.
The U.S. Marshals Fugitive Taskforce assisted local law enforcement in making the arrests, which stemmed from a violent incident last month.
The trouble began about a month ago, on a Saturday evening around 4 p.m., when a man, identified as a U.S. Marine, was walking to his car in the mall's parking garage. Police say three teenage suspects confronted him, demanding his car keys. A struggle ensued, and the suspects allegedly shot the Marine twice in the lower legs before fleeing the scene on foot.
The Marine survived the attack and is recovering from his injuries.
The arrests have heightened concerns about youth crime and public safety in Prince George’s County, particularly during the busy holiday shopping season.
"I just have to be aware of my surroundings," said Isabella Grady, a shopper. "I think that people can be really trusting. And it just — you've heard too many bad stories about women not being safe or being approached."
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Police release photos of juveniles suspected in Beltway Plaza shooting, attempted carjacking
Greenbelt Police have released photos of three juvenile suspects in an attempted carjacking and shooting at Beltway Plaza Mall that left one man injured Saturday.
Steven McKenzie, another shopper, shared similar concerns.
"I actually have a few friends who have been carjacked, coming from work or going out. They thought they validated their car, and it’s gone. So, I’m just very vigilant, you know, paying attention to those stories," he said.
Authorities confirmed that a third suspect is still at large, and the investigation is ongoing. Police urge anyone with information about the case to come forward and contact them.