By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities in Elizabeth have confirmed that an active investigation remains underway following a shootout that took place outside the AMC movie theater at The Mills at Jersey Gardens on Friday evening.
According to preliminary information, police responded to reports of gunfire behind the theater on July 31st, at approximately 7:27 p.m.
Initial reports that surfaced on social media indicated that four apparent teenage males, one believed to be armed with a firearm and another reportedly carrying a knife, were involved in an altercation before shots were fired at an unknown target.
The group then fled the area on foot behind the theater.
When officers arrived, they located multiple shell casings near a bus stop behind the theater. Investigators also found that three parked vehicles had been struck by gunfire.
The report said a police drone was deployed and quickly located four juveniles matching the suspects’ descriptions in the mall parking lot.
Officers from the Union County Sheriff’s Office detained the four individuals while additional police units secured the area.
No injuries were reported.
Elizabeth police officials said the investigation remains active and ongoing.
No additional information, including potential charges, has been released at this time.