What we know about the fatal shooting at Lynnwood’s Alderwood mall

LYNNWOOD — Jayda Woods-Johnson, 13, was fatally shot at Alderwood mall Wednesday evening.

Later that night, a 16-year-old boy was brought to the police by his mother. He’s since been booked into Denney Juvenile Justice Center in Everett. Police think he fired the gun.

The mall announced Thursday that it would remain closed for the day because of the attack. A sign taped to a door said it would reopen Friday at 11 a.m.

Here’s what to know about the shooting:

What happened?

Around 6 p.m. a fight broke out between two groups of teens at Alderwood mall, Lynnwood Deputy Chief Patrick Fagan said. A boy, 16, is alleged to have pulled out a handgun and fired at a group of teens, hitting Woods-Johnson, 13, who wasn’t involved in the fight.

The girl was rushed to the hospital. People at the mall were told to briefly shelter in place. An entrance to the mall was blocked off while police investigated.

Around 11 p.m. Lynnwood police announced on X that Woods-Johnson had died from her injuries. 

Who is the shooter?

The suspect in police custody is a 16-year-old boy from Edmonds. He was wearing a white sweatshirt while at the mall during the time of the shooting. He was brought in by his mother, and police booked him into the youth detention facility. The gun has not yet been recovered, according to Lynnwood police.

Lynnwood police detectives continue to follow leads and collect evidence.

Reactions

Mayor Christine Frizzell and the Alderwood mall released statements Thursday morning about the killing.

“My heart breaks for the family of this young lady killed by a senseless act of violence. I grieve for her family as they attempt to come to grips with the loss of their daughter,” Frizzell wrote. “No one should have to go through this sorrow; the journey ahead for all who know this young lady will be difficult and they will remain in my thoughts and prayers.” 

The Alderwood mall echoed the sentiment.

“We are completely devastated by the senseless, horrific tragedy that happened in our shopping center. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends during this unimaginable time. In observance and respect for them and our entire community, Alderwood will remain closed today.”

The Edmonds School District said on Instagram the Brier Terrace Middle School and district community “experienced a heartbreaking loss on Wednesday evening.” Counselors will be available at the middle school Friday and Monday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the district said.

Lilia Bauman, who was at the mall Wednesday just a few hours before the shooting, was back Thursday to find it closed.

As of midday Thursday, one bouquet of pink roses was propped on an outdoor fireplace near the food court. Macy’s and JCPenney were open, but all of the doors to the interior of the mall were locked.

Bauman was shocked to hear what had happened, putting her hand to her mouth upon learning of the girl’s death.

“It was very crowded yesterday,” she said, noting that the food court is a popular spot for young people to come and hang out and eat.

“That happened at 6 p.m.? That’s still very busy here and still light out,” she said, shaking her head in disbelief.