Teenager arrested after fatal shooting outside Citrus Park mall

CITRUS PARK, Fla. – Officials say they have arrested the teenager who shot and killed 16-year-old Peter “PJ” Hyman at the Citrus Park mall last weekend.

The 15-year-old boy, whose name 10 Tampa Bay is currently withholding due to age reasons, was arrested Thursday evening and charged with first-degree murder, possession of a firearm as a minor and concealed carrying of a firearm.

Investigators said they learned that before the shooting, which occurred shortly after 7 p.m. Saturday, a fight broke out between two groups of boys after a “slapboxing” event was planned in the parking garage. After the “slapboxing,” the boys reportedly shook hands and dispersed.

But it didn't end there.

A short time later, boys from both groups returned to the Citrus Park Town Center Mall and a fight broke out, the agency said.

RELATED TOPIC: “Who brings guns to the mall?” Mother outraged and looking for answers after 16-year-old shot outside mall

Hyman was shot and died a short time later in the hospital.

Investigators said they had gathered enough evidence to arrest the 15-year-old for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting.

“I am proud of our investigators and their work and determination in finding the person responsible for this tragic act. Your dedication will bring the person responsible for this senseless act to justice,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. “There is no excuse for a teenager to have access to a gun. It is our responsibility as parents to hold them accountable before it is too late. Parents, please have these important conversations with your children. Make them understand the consequences of their actions, especially when it comes to firearms.”

According to Hillsborough County District Attorney Suzy Lopez, the 15-year-old will be charged as an adult “because he made an adult decision involving a firearm.”

“We will continue to use every tool at our disposal as prosecutors to hold youth accountable for gun violence in Hillsborough County,” Lopez said in a statement. “This 15-year-old defendant will be charged as an adult for making an adult decision with a firearm. It breaks our hearts to see another young person die at the hands of gun violence. We will stand by the victim's family to ensure the person responsible for his death is held accountable.”