Frightening Scene Unfolds at Canton Crossing
Shoppers at Canton Crossing on Boston Street experienced a harrowing incident on Monday just before noon when gunfire erupted in the parking lot near the Five Below store. Customers and employees at the shopping center reported hearing multiple gunshots, causing panic and confusion. Some visitors to the area took cover, while others arrived moments later to find the aftermath of the violence, including shattered glass and damaged property.
Valerie Fleming, a customer who arrived at the scene as Baltimore City Police began their investigation, described the chaos that unfolded. “A customer opened the door, heard about four pops, and then we noticed our doors started shattering,” Fleming shared. Glass from one of the store’s doors fell to the ground, adding to the tension and fear among those present.
No Injuries Reported Amid Damaged Property
Fortunately, police confirmed that no one was injured during the incident. However, the gunfire caused damage to property, including one of the store’s glass doors and a vehicle in the parking lot. Witnesses described the terrifying moments, recounting how customers rushed to the back of the store for safety, uncertain of the circumstances. A shaken witness added, “They heard boom, boom, boom, and one of the bullets hit the Five Below door. The next thing you know, a lady’s car got hit.”
One shopper reflected on how close they came to being caught in the violence. “If we would have gotten here a couple seconds later, it would have been us,” the individual stated, emphasizing the random and unsettling nature of the event.
Suspect Fires at White Vehicle Before Fleeing
Baltimore City Police are treating the incident as a case of discharging a firearm and are actively investigating to determine the events that led to the gunfire. Witnesses reported seeing a man shoot at a white vehicle in the parking lot before fleeing the scene. Authorities are now working to locate the individuals involved and understand the motive behind the shooting.
The presence of law enforcement was heavily felt at Canton Crossing following the incident. One shopper, who expressed concerns about safety, recounted a conversation with a police officer. “I came down here so I could feel safe because I live in the city. I said, ‘Is it safe to shop?’ and he said, ‘Oh yeah, everything’s okay.’”
Businesses Remain Open Amid Investigations
Despite the unsettling incident, businesses at Canton Crossing remained open during the police investigation. For many, this was the first time anything of this nature had occurred in the area. One local resident, who has frequented the shopping center for years, remarked, “This has never happened here before. Pretty scary. Hopefully, you don’t see it again.” The individual expressed a mixture of disappointment and concern about the unexpected violence disrupting the normally peaceful shopping environment.
Police Seek Answers and Accountability
Baltimore police are continuing their investigation, focusing on identifying those responsible for the gunfire and piecing together the circumstances that led to the incident. “Police are trying to find those involved in firing the shots and also trying to find out why it happened,” reported Valerie Fleming.
The event has left many customers shaken but also hopeful for swift justice and increased safety measures to ensure such an incident does not recur. Canton Crossing, a popular destination for city residents and visitors seeking a safe shopping experience, now grapples with the aftereffects of this alarming event.
