Teenager arrested for shooting 16-year-old at Citrus Park mall: HCSO

TAMPA, Florida. – Authorities said a teenager was arrested for shooting a 16-year-old at the Citrus Park Town Center Mall over the weekend after a planned fight went awry.

According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, 15-year-old Samuel Oquendo was arrested and charged with second-degree murder, among other things, in connection with Saturday's shooting that left 16-year-old Peter Hyman Jr. dead.

READ: Mother of teenager killed in shooting at Citrus Park mall seeks answers: “He didn't deserve this”

Investigators determined that two groups of juveniles participated in a “slapboxing” event in the parking garage of the Citrus Park shopping center on Saturday. After the planned event, the juveniles shook hands and dispersed, according to the HCSO.

But then, a short time later, people from both groups met in front of the mall and a fight broke out. It is not clear when exactly Hyman Jr. was shot.

Following an investigation by the HCSO, Oquendo was arrested around 10:30 p.m. Thursday.

READ: Teenager shot outside Red Robin in Citrus Park mall: HCSO

“There is no excuse for a teenager to have access to a gun,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “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.”

Bianca Cooper's son, Peter “PJ” Hyman Jr., was shot on Saturday

Prosecutor Suzy Lopez said Oquendo was being charged “as an adult because he made an adult decision in handling a firearm.”

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“We are heartbroken to see another young person die at the hands of a gun. We will stand by the victim's family and ensure that the person responsible for his death is held accountable,” said District Attorney Suzy Lopez.