Florida Authorities Launch Manhunt for Suspect in Deadly Mall Shooting; Offer $5,000 Reward for Arrest

Two days before Christmas, authorities in Florida filed an arrest warrant for the man they believe shot and killed another man he “targeted” at a mall.

In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the Ocala Police Department requested assistance from the public in finding Albert Shell Jr., 39, who is wanted for premeditated first-degree murder and attempted premeditated first-degree murder. The department also announced a $5,000 reward on Sunday.

At a press conference, Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken stated that the victim, who lived about 80 miles northwest of Orlando, was shot several times in a common area of Paddock Mall before passing away.

Officers discovered a lady who had been shot in the leg and 40-year-old David Nathaniel Barron dead inside the shopping center. According to authorities, the woman was brought to the hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening.

According to authorities, some other persons within the mall were hurt during the shooting, including one who had a fractured arm and another who had chest problems.

Shell fled the mall following the incident, according to the police. The mall stated after the incident informing people that it will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

The corporate owner of the mall, WPG, stated in a statement that they were assisting the Ocala Police Department with their inquiry.

“This incident has left us quite sorrowful. We are praying for everyone affected,” the message read. “The safety of our guests, retailers, and employees is our top priority.”

A $5,000 reward is being offered by the police for information leading to Shell’s arrest, and they are requesting that anybody with knowledge of his whereabouts phone 352-656-6137.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims, and we are committed to bringing the perpetrator to justice,” police stated.