Four young males charged in connection with weapon incident at mall

Lethbridge Police have charged four youths following an altercation between two groups at Park Place Mall on Friday. During the incident an airsoft pistol - initially believed to be a firearm - was brandished and may have been discharged, causing patrons to fear for their safety and take cover.

On August 28 just after 5:30 p.m., police responded to multiple 911 calls reporting youths running through the mall with a gun. Numerous officers were dispatched and, with assistance from mall security, quickly located and arrested four male youths.

A firearm, later determined to be an airsoft pistol, was seized from one of the youths. Police also seized a knife and a baton from another youth.

The investigation, including a review of CCTV footage, determined that two groups, each consisting of two males, moved through various areas of the mall prior to the confrontation. In the food court, the first pair observed the arrival of the second pair and immediately began pursuing them. Following a brief foot chase, one of the males in the second group produced what appeared to be a firearm.

Upon seeing the weapon, patrons took cover under tables, behind structures and shielded their children. Police determined the incident began as a verbal altercation between the two groups that escalated into a violent confrontation.

At the time of the incident, police did not locate anyone with injuries. However, witnesses reported hearing the airsoft pistol click multiple times. During the review of CCTV footage, investigators observed a female clutching her arm and believe she may have been struck by a projectile.

Police are asking the woman, and anyone else who may have been injured during the incident, to come forward. Investigators are also seeking any witnesses or individuals who have cell phone video footage of the altercation and have not yet spoken to police.

Anyone with information is asked to call 403-328-4444 and reference file 26017199.

A 14-year-old male, of Cardston, who cannot be identified, is charged with:
Use of imitation firearm
Pointing a firearm
Possession of an offensive weapon dangerous to the public
Carrying a concealed weapon
Committing a common nuisance
Causing bodily harm with intent
Mischief – obstruct lawful use of property

A 14-year-old male, of Cardston, who cannot be identified, is charged with:
Carrying a concealed weapon
Causing a disturbance
Mischief – obstruct lawful use of property

A 13-year-old male, of Lethbridge, who cannot be identified, is charged with:
Uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm
Causing a disturbance
Mischief – obstruct lawful use of property

A 15-year-old male, of Lethbridge, who cannot be identified, is charged with:
Uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm
Causing a disturbance
Mischief – obstruct lawful use of property

Following Judicial Interim Release hearings, all four males were released from custody with conditions, including no contact with each other and prohibitions from attending the mall and possessing any weapons. In addition, one of the 14-year-old males, was also issued a curfew, requiring him to remain ins his residence 24 hours a day, except to attend school or other approved appointments. 

The males are all scheduled to appear in youth court on September 23.