Following the quick response of Field Operations officers and thorough investigation led by Community Engagement Response Team personnel, four juveniles have been arrested and three guns were recovered after a report of shots fired in the immediate area of West Town Mall on Saturday night.

At around 8:45 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2024, officers who were already in the area of Kingston Pike and Morrell Road heard gunshots coming from the south side of the West Town Mall. Officers quickly responded and spotted three males running through the JCPenney’s parking lot. All three were detained for further investigation.

One of those individuals, a 15-year-old male, was found in possession of suspected marijuana and a loaded handgun that was reported stolen from Vale View Road in Knox County in January 2024.

Another individual who was initially detained, a 14-year-old male, was in possession of a backpack. Following further investigation, a large amount of suspected marijuana and another firearm that was reported stolen in Knox County in 2023 was found inside of that backpack. That individual was charged for possession of the marijuana and stolen firearm, and was taken into custody on Monday morning.

While officers were still on the scene investigating the reported shots fired on Saturday night, officers spotted two additional individuals running from the area. Both were captured and detained following foot pursuits involving Community Engagement Response Team officers.

One of those individuals, a 16-year-old male, was found in possession of a loaded handgun and suspected burglary tools, including a tool used to cut glass. He was charged with prohibited weapon possession, evading and possession of burglary tools.

The other individual captured following the foot pursuit, a 16-year-old male, was charged with evading arrest.

“This incident was concerning, and I am proud of our officers for their urgency and thoroughness,” Chief of Police Paul Noel said. “Their rapid response and detailed investigation resulted in four arrests and the recovery of three guns, including two stolen guns. Our department is committed at every level to making all areas of our community safer. We will not tolerate behavior of this nature that puts Knoxville residents and visitors in harm’s way.”

No injuries or property damage was reported as a result of the shots fired. Officers located spent shell casings on Gleason Drive near the Belk and JCPenney. 

The investigation into the incident is continuing.