Crime
Multiple people injured after vehicle crashes into JC Penney at Killeen Mall in Texas, suspect shot dead
The exact number of injured individuals is still being determined.
Killeen, TX – A police pursuit that began in Belton ended in tragedy at the Killeen Mall on Saturday, December 21, 2024.
The chase culminated in a fatal officer-involved shooting and multiple injuries to bystanders, according to authorities.
The incident unfolded when a high-speed chase initiated in Belton reached its conclusion at the southern entrance of the Killeen Mall, near the JCPenney store.
According to initial reports, the suspect drove the vehicle into the mall, causing significant damage and reportedly injuring several bystanders.
The exact number of injured individuals is still being determined.
Law enforcement personnel, including officers from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Killeen Police Department, confronted the suspect at the scene.
During the confrontation, a DPS trooper discharged their firearm, fatally wounding the suspect.
The identity of the suspect has not been disclosed, and authorities are actively investigating the series of events that led to this outcome.
Emergency responders, including the Killeen Fire Department, have been assisting at the scene.
The area has been cordoned off as officials conduct a joint investigation into the actions of the suspect and the circumstances surrounding the pursuit and shooting.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid the vicinity of the Killeen Mall while they process the scene and gather evidence.
Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available. Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the Killeen Police Department or Crime Stoppers.
Crime
19-year-old Ladaibrien Acker killed after shooting at gas station on US-90 in Waveland
Following their investigation, police arrested 22-year-old Robert George Sams Jr. in connection with the shooting.
Waveland, MS – The Waveland Police Department is investigating a tragic early morning shooting on Saturday that claimed the life of a 19-year-old man and injured a woman.
At approximately 1:33 a.m., officers responded to reports of gunfire at a gas station on US-90 in Waveland.
Upon arrival, they discovered 19-year-old Ladaibrien Acker, a Waveland resident, in the parking lot suffering from gunshot wounds to the chest.
Emergency medical personnel quickly transported Acker to a local hospital, but despite their efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
During the course of the investigation, authorities identified a second victim—a female who had been shot in the arm. She received medical treatment and has since been released from the hospital.
Following their investigation, police arrested 22-year-old Robert George Sams Jr. in connection with the shooting.
Sams has been charged with first-degree murder and aggravated assault.
The Waveland Police Department confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing.
Authorities are working to determine the circumstances that led to the shooting.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Waveland Police Department at 228-467-3669 or Hancock County Central Dispatch at 228-255-9191.
The department extended its condolences to the family of the deceased and expressed its commitment to ensuring justice is served.