Henrico Police: Only confirmed Short Pump Town Center fight involved just 2 teens
A "takeover event" that prompted heavy police response and caused Short Pump Town Center to close early March 14 involved only one known and confirmed fight between two teenagers, Henrico Police officials said Monday.
Police officials have reviewed surveillance video from the shopping center and were able to find just the one incident but said they are encouraging anyone who may have additional video that shows any other incidents to provide it to them.
The teen "takeover" event Saturday night was promoted by teens on social media, Henrico Police Chief Eric English said, but police did not learn about it until after being called to the mall at about 7:10 p.m. following a report of a large gathering of juveniles who may have been fighting in front of a store. A police investigation has found no evidence that such a fight occurred, Henrico Police Chief Eric English said Monday.
During that initial call, police also received reports of possible gunshots at the mall, but their investigation concluded that no shots had been fired. Police officials also have spoken with officers who were on site in patrol and off-duty capacities and have reviewed other reports filed in connection with the gathering in an attempt to clarify what happened, English said.
“Whenever we receive a report of shots fired, our officers respond immediately to assess the situation and identify any potential threat,” English said. “Our top priority that night was to ensure the safety of everyone on the property, including patrons and employees.”
Videos posted to social media showed a number of people running through the outdoor mall in panic after the initial reports of possible gunshots.
There have been no arrests or charges filed in connection with Saturday's gathering, according to police.
"From what we've seen thus far, there was nothing illegal that was taking place at the mall,” English said.
One teen was arrested and charged in connection with an unrelated shoplifting incident at Dick’s Sporting Goods at about 5:45 p.m. – before the takeover event.
“We encourage community members to follow our website and official social media platforms for updates,” English said. “Our goal is to share information that has been verified and is both accurate and timely. While information can spread quickly, we remain committed to ensuring what we provide to the public is confirmed and reliable.”
Henrico Police officials maintain social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, Nextdoor, YouTube, and Ring-Neighbors. Information about various incidents is posted on nearly all of those social media pages, and the public also can read news releases at Henrico.gov/police.
"We try to do our best to monitor social media,” English said. "If we do see something that we feel might have a chance to create some issues, we try to follow up and be prepared prior to the event taking place. If you see something suspicious, please contact us with those details.”
The Henrico Police non-emergency number is (804) 501-5000.
