Massachusetts

Teen in Custody After Police Incident at Square One Mall in Saugus, Massachusetts

A 16-year-old is facing multiple charges following a break-in and ensuing standoff at the Square One Mall in Saugus, Massachusetts, on Monday morning.

Police responded to the mall around 4:20 a.m. for a report of an armed and dangerous intruder following a break-in at Dick's Sporting Goods. The teen allegedly broke into the store by breaking a window and stole a long rifle and ammunition from the store.

"We were told that there was a potential gunman at Dick's Sporting Goods," said Donna Stone, who works at the mall.

All of the mall entrances were blocked by police vehicles. State police and a SWAT team responded to the scene. A number of K9 units from various departments rushed into the mall shortly before 10 a.m.

Police initially believed the teen was still in the store, but ultimately apprehended him in Everett around 11:30 a.m. It is now believed that he escaped shortly after police first responded.

Police located the bolt action rifle in a wooded area near the mall early Monday evening. No other firearms were believed to be missing from the store's inventory.

The teen - whose name is not being released because he is a juvenile - was charged with breaking and entering during the nighttime to commit a felony, malicious destruction of property over $250 and larceny of a firearm. Additional charges could be added, according to police.

The mall delayed its opening, but reopened on Monday afternoon. Dick's Sporting Goods is expected to remain closed all day.

"Square One Mall in Saugus is now open, but specific retailer re-opening times may vary," said Mike Connell, Square One Mall manager. "We are grateful the incident was resolved safely and quickly by Saugus Police and other area law enforcement agencies."

Area schools also briefly sheltered in place as a precaution while the incident was scene was still active.

Contact Us