Teen arrested in fatal shooting at Alderwood Mall food court

LYNNWOOD — A 16-year-old Edmonds boy shot and killed a 13-year-old girl in the food court of Alderwood Mall Wednesday night, police said.

The incident reportedly began around 6 p.m. with a fight between two groups in the food court. A 16-year-old boy pulled out a gun and fired at the other group, hitting a teenage girl who was not involved in the fight, according to KOMO. The 13-year-old girl was reportedly rushed to the hospital.

Shortly before 11 p.m., Lynnwood police announced the girl's death. Investigators identified her as Jayda Woods-Johnson, noting that her family had asked for her privacy and requested that all media inquiries go through the police department.

Citing the deputy police chief, KING 5 reported that both groups, including the alleged shooter, fled the mall after the shooting. The mother of the teen suspect later brought her son to police, authorities said. He is expected to be booked for investigation of murder.

Detectives have not found the weapon used in the murder.

Shortly after 7:15 p.m., police reported the incident on social media, but did not immediately provide further details. The police department urged people to avoid the mall, located at 3000 184th St. SW.

Police urged anyone who saw a teenager wearing a white sweatshirt to call 911. Detectives asked anyone involved to call 425-670-5623.