URGENT UPDATE: Three men have been arrested following a dramatic confrontation involving firearms at the Chandler Fashion Center food court on January 5, 2024. Chandler police confirmed that chaos erupted when bystanders reported seeing two men drawing guns on another individual, prompting multiple 911 calls from patrons in the mall located near Loop 101 and Chandler Boulevard.
According to police, the incident unfolded around 8:00 PM when John Lathrop allegedly approached Jalen Bails-Bacchus and Jeremiah Bagby with the intent to strike them. In response, Bails-Bacchus and Bagby drew their firearms and pointed them at Lathrop as the confrontation escalated into the busy food court area.
Authorities later located the trio arguing inside a nearby retail store. Thankfully, no injuries were reported during this alarming incident. Police discovered that Bails-Bacchus and Bagby were armed and subsequently arrested them on-site. Lathrop was later apprehended at his residence.
All three men now face various charges as the situation remains under investigation. Local authorities are continuing to gather details about the incident, emphasizing the importance of public safety in crowded areas like shopping malls.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. Updates will follow as more information becomes available. Watch for live coverage on local news to stay informed about this developing story.
