Gastonia, North Carolina, December 11, 2025
The Gastonia Police Department has released surveillance footage of two male suspects in a shooting at Eastridge Mall. On December 4, suspects caused a disturbance, fired shots inside the mall, and fled the scene. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The police are asking for public assistance to identify the suspects who escaped in a red SUV.
Gastonia, North Carolina – Police Seek Public Help After Eastridge Mall Shooting
Gastonia Police Department has released surveillance footage of two male suspects involved in a shooting incident at Eastridge Mall on December 4, 2025. The video shows the suspects entering the mall, one carrying a long gun, and later firing two shots inside the mall before fleeing the scene. Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident. The police are actively seeking public assistance to identify and locate the suspects. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Houser at 704-866-6702 or Crime Stoppers at 704-861-8000.
Details of the Incident
On December 4, 2025, at approximately 5:30 p.m., two unidentified juveniles caused a disturbance inside Hibbett Sports at Eastridge Mall. A female employee escorted them out of the store. As they were leaving, one or both of the individuals brandished a firearm and fired two shots in the air before running off. No one was hurt, and the incident is under investigation. The suspects were last seen entering a “Gamecock red” midsize, four-door SUV with a phone mount in the front.
Background Information
Eastridge Mall, located at 246 North New Hope Road in Gastonia, North Carolina, opened in 1976 and houses around 70 stores. The mall has previously been the site of other incidents, including a shooting in 2018 where one person was injured in the parking lot. In 2016, a teen fired shots at officers outside the mall and was injured after jumping over a retaining wall. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges in ensuring safety within the mall premises.
FAQ
What happened during the shooting incident at Eastridge Mall?
On December 4, 2025, two unidentified juveniles caused a disturbance inside Hibbett Sports at Eastridge Mall. A female employee escorted them out of the store. As they were leaving, one or both of the individuals brandished a firearm and fired two shots in the air before running off. Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident. The suspects were last seen entering a “Gamecock red” midsize, four-door SUV with a phone mount in the front.
How can I assist in identifying the suspects?
Anyone with information about the suspects is urged to contact Detective Houser at 704-866-6702 or Crime Stoppers at 704-861-8000. Your assistance could be crucial in resolving this case.
Has Eastridge Mall experienced similar incidents in the past?
Yes, Eastridge Mall has previously been the site of other incidents. In 2018, a shooting occurred in the parking lot, resulting in one person being injured. In 2016, a teen fired shots at officers outside the mall and was injured after jumping over a retaining wall. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges in ensuring safety within the mall premises.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Eastridge Mall, 246 North New Hope Road, Gastonia, North Carolina |
| Date and Time | December 4, 2025, approximately 5:30 p.m. |
| Incident | Two unidentified juveniles caused a disturbance inside Hibbett Sports, were escorted out, and fired two shots in the air before fleeing. |
| Suspects | Two males, both dressed in dark clothing and masked; one carrying a long gun. |
| Vehicle | “Gamecock red” midsize, four-door SUV with a phone mount in the front. |
| Injuries | No injuries reported; no one was hurt during the incident. |
| Investigation | Gastonia Police Department is seeking public assistance to identify and locate the suspects. Contact Detective Houser at 704-866-6702 or Crime Stoppers at 704-861-8000. |
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