Four Arrested Following Arlington Shooting
Authorities have apprehended four individuals in relation to a shooting incident that occurred at the Arbrook Park Apartments in Arlington, Texas, resulting in injuries to a 13-year-old girl who was in her home at the time.
Incident Overview
The shooting took place shortly after 2 a.m. on Monday, March 10. Law enforcement investigation indicates that two groups exchanged gunfire in the apartment complex’s parking area.
Upon arrival, police discovered multiple bullet casings, several vehicles damaged by gunfire, and a bullet hole in the window of a first-floor unit. The stray bullet struck the sleeping girl in her arm. Fortunately, family members transported her to the hospital where she received treatment and was subsequently released. Investigators believe that neither the girl nor any other residents were specifically targeted during the incident.
Investigation and Arrests
The Arlington Police Department initially faced challenges obtaining leads. However, on March 12, officers were called back to the same location after reports of an armed individual threatening residents. During this response, two suspects, later identified as 23-year-old Michael Thomas and 21-year-old Dmarjae Johnson, attempted to flee but were quickly apprehended.
Following interrogations and the review of evidence, police connected these individuals to the earlier shooting incident. Johnson faces charges for evading arrest and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, while Thomas is charged with evading arrest, deadly conduct, unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
Continued investigations led to the identification of two additional suspects: 18-year-old Cortez Atkinson and a juvenile male. Both individuals are documented gang members, and warrants were issued for their involvement in organized criminal activity.
On March 18, law enforcement officials from the U.S. Marshals North Texas Fugitive Task Force apprehended the juvenile. Subsequently, Atkinson surrendered to law enforcement on March 19 at the Arlington City Jail.
Context of Violence
Detectives believe that the shooting was part of an ongoing feud between rival groups, classified as retaliatory in nature. However, police have not disclosed any specific incidents that might have prompted this retaliatory violence.
Law Enforcement Response
Arlington Police Chief Al Jones expressed pride in the timely and diligent efforts of the Violent Crime Unit and Gang Specialists in apprehending the suspects. “I want to be absolutely clear that this police department and this community will not tolerate this type of violence,” Jones stated, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to addressing such reckless behavior that endangers innocent lives.
Source: Information has been retrieved from Arlington Police and previous reports by FOX 4.
