Shoppers were caught off guard yesterday at the Clackamas Town Center when festive holiday activities turned alarming with the sound of gunfire. The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the shooting took place around 3:00 PM, just as many families were busy preparing for last-minute holiday purchases.
The incident occurred in the south parking lot of the shopping center, with initial reports confirming the presence of deputies who quickly intervened. Their prompt action led to the detaining of 18-year-old Pedro Anthony Cornejo-Morales, the supposed shooter, for questioning. Following the incident, one victim—a 15-year-old boy—was found shot in the hand and later transported to the hospital with injuries deemed non-life-threatening.
The investigation is still underway, with the sheriff's office emphasizing they believe the situation was isolated and not indicative of an active shooter scenario. "The incident was not an active shooter situation and appeared to be isolated," stated officials from the sheriff’s office, aiming to alleviate fears among community members about potential threats during the busy holiday shopping season.
Cornejo-Morales was apprehended later on Friday evening, found hiding behind a building near the scene of the shooting. He faces serious charges, including second-degree attempted murder, first-degree assault, and unlawful use of a weapon. He was booked at the Clackamas County Jail shortly after 10 PM.
Authorities have not revealed whether Cornejo-Morales and the teenage victim were acquaintances, and they continue to seek insights from witnesses."Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office Tip Line," the sheriff's office communicated, reminding the public of their role in ensuring community safety.
The chaotic event unfolded as shoppers were approaching the climax of their holiday rush, leaving many rattled and shaken. Nevertheless, the mall continued its operations, reassuring visitors by coordinating with the sheriff’s office and mall security to maintain safety within the property.
This incident is part of broader concerns about safety during the holidays—a time usually marked by joy and family gatherings. Can communities truly maintain secure environments amid sporadic violence, especially as they celebrate their traditions? “We are working vigorously to keep public areas safe, particularly at this time of year,” remarked the sheriff’s office.
Following the shooting, there was a heavy police presence marked by the rapid response teams solidifying the area around the parking lot, where the shooting occurred. Eyewitness accounts suggest panic momentarily swept through the crowd as shoppers sought cover or rushed to safety.
Witnesses described seeing the victim trying to escape from the vehicle when the shots rang out. According to one report from The Oregonian/OregonLive, relatives revealed the teen was attempting to leave the scene when at least one shooter opened fire, prompting chaos as shoppers tried to make sense of the situation.
Despite the fallout from the violence, local authorities express confidence about their ability to handle the investigation and respond to community concerns. The sheriff's office has indicated they will thoroughly investigate the event's timeline and respond to witnesses to piece the incident together accurately.
The community is now left grappling with the unfortunate turn of events amid what is meant to be one of the most cheerful and harmonious times of the year. Many parents express concern over the safety of their children and families, hearing of violence so close to home. Indeed, this incident has left many wondering about the safety of public spaces during the holidays.
While law enforcement continues their investigation and endeavors to provide answers, the Clackamas Town Center and surrounding community remain vigilant, seeking peace after experiencing chaos under the holiday lights.
