Photo: Daniel Tamas Mehes / iStock / Getty Images
A 20-year-old man, Malachi T. Wynder, has been charged in connection with a targeted shooting at Sangertown Square Mall in Oneida County. The incident occurred on Saturday (March 1), leaving one person injured. Wynder, who is from Rome, was apprehended in Utica with the assistance of the Utica Police Department and the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office.
According to New Hartford police, Wynder faces charges of attempted murder, first-degree reckless endangerment, and second-degree criminal possession of a loaded firearm. The arrest was executed by the METRO SWAT Team, which includes officers from various local agencies.
The shooting was reported around 12:45 p.m. on Saturday, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement. Officers found a male victim with multiple gunshot wounds, who was subsequently transported to Wynn Hospital. Authorities quickly established that there was no active shooter threat, but the mall was temporarily secured as a precautionary measure.
The New Hartford Police Department indicated that the shooting was a targeted attack between known individuals. Additional charges against Wynder may be filed as the investigation continues. The Oneida County District Attorney’s Office is actively involved in the case.
The mall, owned by Pyramid Management Group, reopened for normal business hours on Sunday (March 2). Stephen Congel of Pyramid Management expressed gratitude for the swift action of law enforcement, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining a safe environment for mall visitors.