Teenagers Arrested After Mall Fight Forces Closure in Virginia

The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City in Arlington, Virginia, was the scene of multiple fights that erupted on Saturday evening, leading to its closure by authorities and the detention of several teenagers.

According to a news release from the Arlington County Police Department, officers responded to the mall just after 7 p.m. and found "a very large crowd in the food court and numerous fights happening simultaneously." Despite a significant police presence, the situation remained chaotic, with fights continuing to occur.

Teenagers Detained and Charged

Police took into custody three teenagers in connection with the disturbances: a 13-year-old girl, a 15-year-old girl, and a 14-year-old boy. Each faces various charges related to the riot and assaults on officers, mall security personnel, and store employees.

The 13-year-old girl allegedly pushed an officer and resisted detainment before being apprehended with assistance from other officers. She was charged with riot and assault on police.

The 15-year-old girl is accused of assaulting a store employee, a police officer, and mall security personnel. Her charges include assault on police, two counts of assault and battery, injury to a person in a riot, and obstruction of justice.

The 14-year-old boy allegedly assaulted an officer and resisted arrest. During his detention, officers recovered a knife from him. He faces charges of assault on police, riot while carrying a weapon, and trespassing.

Several individuals, including responding officers, mall security personnel, and a store employee, sustained minor injuries during the chaotic events at the mall. Both of the detained teenage girls also received treatment for minor injuries.

As a safety precaution, authorities closed the mall and evacuated patrons on Saturday evening. The mall reopened on Sunday with increased police patrols in the area to ensure public safety.