Crime
Heavy Police Presence Reported at Augusta Mall Following Shooting Threat
Augusta, GA – A heavy police response was reported at Augusta Mall on Saturday after receiving reports of a potential shooting threat. The incident, which caused widespread panic among shoppers, led to stores locking down and the rapid deployment of law enforcement to the scene.
Witnesses reported that the situation began with an altercation among individuals inside the mall. During the confrontation, one person allegedly made a verbal threat to “shoot it up,” prompting fear and chaos.
Shoppers and employees fled in panic, with many running for safety while others sought refuge in locked stores. According to witnesses, the atmosphere quickly became chaotic, with people dispersing throughout the mall.
Law enforcement officers arrived swiftly at the scene, securing the premises and working to restore order. Police confirmed that no shots were fired, and the situation appears to be under control. Officers continue to investigate the incident to determine the validity of the threat and ensure public safety.
During the commotion, a woman reportedly lost her child amidst the crowd and was seen screaming and panicking as she searched for her child. Witnesses described the scene as emotional and distressing, though the child was reportedly located shortly after the initial chaos.
As of now, there are no reported injuries, and authorities have not confirmed any active threats. Augusta Mall has resumed normal operations, although a significant police presence remains as part of the ongoing investigation.
Law enforcement is urging anyone with information regarding the altercation or the threat to come forward to assist with their investigation. Shoppers are advised to stay vigilant and follow any updates or safety advisories from local authorities.
More details will be provided as the investigation unfolds.
Crime
Two Children, Ages 9 and 10, Charged in Brutal Assault and Attempted Murder of 5-Year-Old A’Marie Jones in Cleveland
CLEVELAND, Ohio — Two children, ages 9 and 10, have been formally charged in connection with the brutal assault and attempted murder of a 5-year-old girl A’marie Jones in Cleveland last month, according to the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office.
Prosecutors confirmed that the 9-year-old boy and 10-year-old girl are facing serious felony charges, including attempted murder, rape, felonious assault, kidnapping, and strangulation.
Because of their ages, both suspects are being charged as juveniles.
The alleged attack occurred on September 13 in a field near East 148th Street and St. Clair Avenue, where investigators say the young victim was discovered severely injured.
The child’s mother, Antavia Kennibrew, previously told that her daughter suffered catastrophic injuries, describing the scene as “unbelievable.” Kennibrew said she had dropped her daughter off at a relative’s home near East 145th Street and St. Clair Avenue that day.
At some point, the 5-year-old reportedly wandered out of the house alone before being attacked.
“When I saw her, she was unrecognizable,” Kennibrew said. “Her hair was scalped from her head. She had bruises and blood all over her body. Her eyes were filled with blood, her lips and mouth were swollen and bleeding, and her nails were filled with dirt and debris.”
First responders rushed the child to the hospital for emergency treatment. Officials say she continues to recover but has suffered severe physical, emotional, and psychological trauma. She is now undergoing ongoing therapy and counseling.
Due to the extreme sensitivity of the case and the involvement of minors, the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office has declined to release further details, citing the ongoing investigation and the need to protect the victim’s privacy.
“The investigation remains active,” prosecutors said, noting that authorities are still reviewing evidence and gathering additional information.
Kennibrew says her focus now is on helping her daughter heal:
“I just want her to be able to live like a normal 5-year-old again.”
Cleveland police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the assault.