San Jose police have arrested a 17-year-old boy with known gang ties after a Black Friday shooting outside the Macy’s store at Valley Fair Mall. The incident, which caused widespread panic among holiday shoppers, took place around 5:30 p.m. during a clash between rival groups.
According to Police Chief Paul Joseph, one group wore “gang-related clothing,” and the teen suspect allegedly pulled a hidden handgun from his waistband before firing.
Shoppers ran for cover as multiple shots were fired, but no one was killed despite the heavy holiday foot traffic. Three people were injured: the intended male target, a woman, and a 16-year-old girl. All were treated for non-life-threatening wounds and later released from the hospital.
How Police Identified and Arrested the Suspect
Investigators used automated license plate readers and hours of surveillance footage to track the teen to a local residence. Officers arrested him wearing black Levi’s and a gray sweatshirt, with his hands restrained.
The District Attorney’s Office confirmed that a woman helped him flee the scene by pushing a stroller carrying a baby unrelated to the incident. Both suspects are expected to face charges during Wednesday’s arraignment.
Chief Joseph also revealed the teen had previously fled from police in February with a loaded gun. That case resulted in probation, which Joseph described as offering “little to no consequences.”
Police Chief and DA Call for Stronger Juvenile Gun Laws
Chief Joseph described the Black Friday chaos in stark terms: “Instead of the usual holiday hustle and bustle, gunfire ripped through Valley Fair Mall while thousands were inside,” he said, crediting the swift police response for preventing further injuries.
He strongly criticized California’s juvenile laws, saying, “In California, our laws do not treat gun violence with meaningful consequences,” and urged lawmakers to take action. District Attorney Jeff Rosen called the act “terrorism” and confirmed that charges will be filed against both the shooter and the woman who helped him escape.
Mayor Mahan Responds as Mall Reopens
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan also addressed the incident, noting how social media amplified fear far beyond the three victims. “Guns are not toys and should not be in teenagers’ hands,” he said, emphasizing the need to prevent gangs from recruiting vulnerable youth.
Authorities stated that additional charges may follow for those who helped hide the suspect. The baby in the stroller was unharmed.
Valley Fair Mall reopened shortly after the incident as police completed their sweeps. One mall worker described hiding with coworkers in a storeroom after hearing the shots during a break.
Mayor Mahan praised the quick action of SJPD and first responders for preventing what could have been a far worse tragedy during one of the year’s busiest shopping days.
