ARLINGTON, Va. – A Friday night at the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City turned chaotic when several fights broke out among a large crowd of teens, leading to charges against three juveniles and minor injuries for police officers and mall employees.
According to Arlington County Police, the incident began just after 7 p.m. on March 29, when officers were called to the 1100 block of S. Hayes Street for multiple reports of fights inside the mall. When they arrived, they found a packed food court and several fights happening at once.
With the situation quickly escalating, more officers were called in. Police say the crowd remained aggressive, prompting them to shut down the mall and evacuate shoppers.
Three teens were taken into custody:
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A 13-year-old girl was charged with Riot and Assault on Police after reportedly pushing an officer and resisting arrest.
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A 15-year-old girl faces multiple charges including Assault on Police, Assault and Battery (x2), Obstruction of Justice, and Injury to a Person in a Riot. Police say she assaulted a store employee and attacked both mall security and officers.
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A 14-year-old boy was charged with Assault on Police, Riot While Carrying a Weapon, and Trespassing. A knife was recovered during his arrest.
All three were treated for minor injuries. Police, mall security, and a store employee also reported minor injuries during the incident.
Due to their ages, further information about the teens is being withheld under Virginia law.
The Fashion Centre reopened the next day, and Arlington County Police say they’re increasing patrols at the mall for the time being. The investigation is ongoing.
If you were at the mall during the incident or have information, police ask that you call their tip line at 703-228-4180 or email ACPDTipline@arlingtonva.us. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via Arlington County Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).
Police credited the quick support of partner agencies—including the Arlington Fire Department, Virginia State Police, Metro Transit Police, and Pentagon Force Protection—for helping to bring the situation under control.