Crime
3 injured after shooting at Park Plaza Mall in Little Rock
Little Rock, AR — Authorities have launched an investigation after gunfire erupted at Park Plaza Mall on Friday, November 29, 2024, leaving three individuals injured.
According to initial reports, the incident began as an exchange of gunfire between two individuals who were reportedly known to each other.
The shooting occurred at approximately 1:44 p.m., prompting a swift response from the Little Rock Police Department.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered three individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.
Emergency medical teams were dispatched to provide treatment, and the injuries sustained by the victims are currently described as non-life-threatening.
Law enforcement officials have emphasized that this was not an active shooter situation.
Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott released the following statement regarding the incident.
The careless, senseless and criminal actions of two individuals today jeopardized the lives and safety of residents and visitors. We are praying for the victims of this incident and are hopeful they make a full recovery.
Gun violence is unacceptable at any time or in any place. We trust those responsible for this will be held fully accountable for their dangerous and reckless decisions.
We are grateful to our law enforcement officers, first responders, mall security and employees, and everyone who acted quickly to ensure safety and protect others.
Police noted that the incident was isolated, involving the two individuals exchanging gunfire.
Further updates will be provided as more details become available.
Crime
Stephen McKenzie Identified as Suspect in Pembroke Park Shooting That Left Mother and Three Children Dead
PEMBROKE PARK, FL – Authorities have identified the suspect in a horrific mass shooting at a Pembroke Park apartment complex as 34-year-old Stephen McKenzie, the father of two of the youngest victims.
The shooting, which occurred on Wednesday evening, claimed the lives of a mother and three of her children.
At approximately 7:30 p.m., Pembroke Park Police and Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) deputies responded to reports of gunfire at an apartment complex located in the 3100 block of Hallandale Beach Boulevard.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a woman and three children fatally shot inside the residence.
The victims were identified as:
- Julie Cruz, 32 (mother)
- Xion Solomon, 11
- Nova McKenzie, 2
- Emery McKenzie, 2
Both Nova and Emery were McKenzie’s biological children, authorities confirmed.
Additionally, first responders found 8-year-old Phiinyx Solomon suffering from gunshot wounds.
She was immediately transported to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, where she remains in serious condition.
McKenzie was also located at the scene with a self-inflicted gunshot wound following an unsuccessful suicide attempt, according to investigators.
He was transported to HCA Florida Aventura Hospital in critical condition and is currently in police custody.
During a press briefing, BSO spokesperson Claudinne Caro confirmed that McKenzie has been identified as the primary suspect in the shooting.
“Upon arrival, officers found a woman and three children inside the apartment, all of whom were pronounced deceased from gunshot wounds. Another child and an adult male were also found injured. That male has now been identified as the suspect,” Caro stated.
The children’s grandmother arrived at the scene shortly after authorities notified her of the tragedy, collapsing into tears as she grieved the loss of her daughter and grandchildren.
“That’s my daughter! That’s my daughter!” she wailed in agony, as bystanders and neighbors attempted to console her.
Authorities have not yet released details regarding the motive behind the attack, but neighbors and community members are left shocked and devastated by the brutal act of domestic violence.
“I just don’t understand what could lead someone to do something so terrible,” said one neighbor.
McKenzie remains hospitalized under police watch as the BSO Homicide Unit continues its investigation.
Officials urge anyone with additional information to contact Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS.