BRANDON, Fla. (WFLA) – A shooting investigation is underway at the Brandon Mall following a report of shots fired.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, an undercover deputy was attempting to buy guns in an effort to get them off the street. The seller and the undercover deputy buyer agreed to meet in the mall parking lot outside Macy’s and the Cheesecake factory.
During the transaction, HCSO says a member of the group who was selling guns pulled a weapon and tried to rob the undercover deputy.
Nearby deputies who were monitoring the situation moved in to protect the undercover officer. As HCSO crews came to make an arrest both suspects fled on foot and shot at deputies. Thankfully no one was hurt.
According to deputies, Jordan Gracia, 19, was taken into custody. However, the second person remains on the run and deputies are attempting to take that person into custody. A description of the other suspect has not yet been provided.
Deputies say Gracia has 26 felony charges and 14 misdemeanors including armed burglary. He faces charges that will include armed robbery and attempted murder of a law enforcement officer.
The Brandon Mall has closed and deputies are attempting to search for the other person at the mall at this time.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
