2020 Riverchase Galleria shooting
The 2020 Riverchase Galleria shooting was a fatal incident that took place inside the Riverchase Galleria shopping mall on the afternoon of Friday July 3, 2020. A dispute near the mall's food court escalated to gunfire, wounding four people. Eight-year-old Royta Giles Jr died from a gunshot wound to the head.
Montez Coleman is believed to have been the first to pull a gun, a 5.56 caliber pistol, during a confrontation with another group of men. At least two other males returned fire. All of those wounded are believed to have been innocent bystanders. Royta, a second grade student at Jonesboro Elementary School, was with his family trying to take cover, when he was struck by a bullet near the entrance to The Children's Place clothing store.
Coleman was seen fleeing through the Hyatt Regency Hotel's parking deck. He was arrested and later charged with capitol murder and three counts of assault in the 2nd degree. Others involved are sought for questioning.
References
- Robinson, Carol (July 3, 2020) "Shooting at Riverchase Galleria in Hoover; 8-year-old boy killed, 3 others wounded." The Birmingham News
- Robinson, Carol (July 5, 2020) "Riverchase Galleria shooting: Man charged in death of 8-year-old Royta Giles Jr.; other gunmen sought." The Birmingham News