CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WXYZ) — Clinton Township police are investigating a shooting at Partridge Creek on Sunday evening while the outdoor mall was hosting its annual tree lighting.
Watch the latest report in the video player below:
On Monday, police released more information about the shooting, saying it started as a verbal altercation that escalated between two groups of people outside the MJR Theatre entrance.
Police said officers were already present at the mall for the tree lighting when the report of gunfire happened. The 17-year-old who was shot was treated and taken to the hospital and is in stable condition.
During the commotion, police said 911 was getting calls of an active threat at other locations in the mall, but any reports of other violence or gunfire were false and did not happen.
Police are searching for a person of interest in the shooting. They say the person of interest in the shooting is described as a Black male wearing a green hooded sweatshirt with white flowers, jeans and tennis shoes. They were last seen leaving the mall to the west, police say.
Chris Reynolds owns and operates The Detroit Life Shop at Partridge Creek, and said police have plenty of surveillance footage to work with.
"It happened right here and my store is actually kitty-cornered to this," Reynolds said. "On my building right here, there’s a security camera right there, there’s one right above us, literally right over there, there’s two there and then there’s one on the other side as well."
The shooting stunned the Clinton Township community, but shoppers at Partridge Creek we talked with Monday say they refuse to let it dampen their spirit.
"I hope they get him, it was uncalled for," Dee Tompkins said.
"Don’t lose faith in humanity always, but to just remind yourself that there’s still good, but to be aware of your surroundings," said Kaylee Dicicco. "Always be aware of your surroundings.
Watch chopper video over Partridge Creek Mall following shooting
Partridge Creek released the following statement after the incident: "We are currently working with local law enforcement to gather details on what occurred during tonight’s tree lighting event. Guest and staff safety is our top priority, and we will continue to collaborate with Clinton Township Police Department as they investigate this situation."
