17-year-old Thornhill arrested for shooting three at Monroeville Mall
When we read about serious juvenile crimes, there is generally some sad subplot that pervades in the lives of these kids’ stories that is lost in the context of things. Often times, a troubling home life and sketchy upbringing can be the difference between a young man (or woman) excelling in life and leading a life of crime. One of the problems is that many of these young people do not understand the full scope of consequences surrounding the juvenile crimes they commit. Making national news, young Tarod Thornhill was arrested and charged with shooting three people at the Monroeville Mall this past Saturday evening. It has recently come out that the teenager also stole a car at fourteen, leading police on a high-speed chase before crashing the car along the Parkway East in Churchill, according to the Penn Hills police chief. During the accident, Thornhill was thrown from the stolen vehicle and first responders thought he was dead upon arrival, going as far as placing a white sheet over the boy, only to see him surprisingly survive and awaken just hours later. According to police, Thornhill opened fire at the Macy’s, injuring three people, two of whom are critically injured. Macy’s surveillance footage shows Thornhill approaching a 20-year-old man with a handgun. He then had words with the 20-year-old man and opened fire. In addition to the intended target, a 48- and 47-year-old husband and wife (respectively) were hit and seriously injured. As of yesterday, the husband and intended target remained in critical condition at Forbes Hospital. The wife, also at Forbes Hospital, is listed in fair condition. Police are certain that Thornhill was targeting the 20-year-old, but have not listed any reasons as to why. Police did say that Thornhill has had a warrant out for his arrest after escaping a court-appointed reform program for juvenile delinquents this past December. One of Thornhill’s past probation officers confirmed that the 17-year-old has been found guilty twice before of illegally possessing firearms. Records from the court prove a troubling past for Thornhill, especially with his parents, who are both in jail. Reporters were unable to reach any of Thornhill’s family members for comments after the shooting. These are very difficult cases and must be treated with precise caution. If you have questions about juvenile crimes or crimes committed by a juvenile who will likely be charged as adult, please call Pittsburgh criminal defense attorney Gary Gerson today for a free consultation at 412-219-6875. Source: TribLive.com, “Suspect in Monroeville Mall shooting led troubled life” 10 February 2015
