HOLYOKE — A juvenile male was shot in the leg by a Holyoke police officer Friday afternoon at the Holyoke Mall after the suspect allegedly produced a firearm during a shoplifting investigation.
The incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. when a mall security guard observed the subject allegedly shoplifting and contacted Holyoke police officers working a detail at the mall.
When officers approached the suspect near the entrance of Round One, the suspect produced a firearm, according to the preliminary investigation.
Both the suspect and one officer discharged their firearms during the encounter.
The officer was not struck by gunfire.
The suspect was shot in the leg and immediately provided first aid by Holyoke officers before being transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Officers recovered the suspect’s firearm at the scene.
The juvenile male was placed under arrest, though no further information about the suspect will be released due to his age.
Holyoke Police Detectives and the Massachusetts State Police will investigate the officer-involved shooting.
Police Chief Brian Keenan and Mayor Joshua A. Garcia addressed the incident during a press conference Friday night.
“I do want to make it clear, that while this incident can cause fear, the Holyoke Mall is a safe place to shop and visit,” Keenan said.
No innocent bystanders were harmed during the incident.
The mall was evacuated and closed Friday evening but will reopen during regular business hours Saturday with an enhanced police presence.
Massachusetts State Police, West Springfield Police and Springfield Police assisted during the incident.
