Crime
Video shows moments suspect shot and killed by troopers after vehicle crashes into JC Penney at Killeen Mall in Texas
The suspect struck multiple individuals during the incident, causing injuries to at least five people.
Killeen, TX – A chaotic scene unfolded at the Killeen Mall on Saturday night when a high-speed police chase ended with a vehicle crashing into the front entrance of JCPenney and a fatal officer-involved shooting.
Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Sgt. Bryan Washko confirmed that the suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, was fatally shot by a trooper after driving through the mall’s entrance.
The suspect struck multiple individuals during the incident, causing injuries to at least five people.
Four victims were transported to local hospitals with injuries ranging from minor to severe, while a fifth individual sought medical attention independently.
Video footage of the incident shows the dramatic moments leading up to the fatal confrontation. Following the crash, the suspect reportedly exited the vehicle, prompting troopers to take action.
Early reports on social media created widespread speculation about an active shooter situation at the mall, which Sgt. Washko promptly addressed.
“Let me reiterate, this is not an active shooter situation,” Sgt. Washko stated. “There’s a lot of chatter online suggesting that, but I want to be clear—that did not happen.”
The Killeen Police Department echoed this sentiment in a Facebook post, assuring the public that the mall is secure.
“There is no active shooter at the Killeen Mall,” the post read. “DPS, KFD [Killeen Fire Department], and KPD [Killeen Police Department] are on scene investigating. We urge citizens to avoid the area as the investigation continues.”
According to authorities, the incident began as a police pursuit in Belton before concluding in Killeen.
The circumstances surrounding the chase and the actions of the suspect remain under investigation.
As of the latest update, the total number of injured victims and the extent of their injuries are still being confirmed.
Law enforcement officials are working diligently to piece together the sequence of events and ensure the safety of the community.
The DPS, KPD, and KFD are conducting a joint investigation, and more information is expected to be released as details emerge. Residents are urged to avoid the Killeen Mall area while authorities process the scene.
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.