OCALA, Fla. – Ocala police are now offering $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of the man they believe opened fire in Paddock Mall Saturday, killing a man and injuring a woman.
Police announced the reward to help find Albert Shell Jr., 39, on Tuesday. Shell is wanted on charges of first-degree murder and attempted premeditated first-degree murder.
Investigators said Shell opened fire inside the mall and killed David Nathaniel Barron, 40. Investigators believe Barron was targeted by Shell.
[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]
A woman was also hit by the gunfire but is expected to recover.
The mall was evacuated and closed as investigators worked the scene Saturday night, eventually opening the parking lots back up to allow people to retrieve their vehicles while businesses remained shuttered.
News 6 obtained surveillance video from inside of the mall the moment gunfire breaks out. GRAPHIC WARNING: Viewer discretion is advised:
The mall reopened Tuesday for the first time since the shooting.
Ocala police said they are also looking for a person who took the shooter’s hat following the attack inside the mall.
Investigators posted surveillance images and video of that person on social media.
CAN YOU IDENTIFY? This person tampered with crucial evidence by taking the shooter's red hat from the crime scene at the Paddock Mall. That hat may contain valuable DNA evidence. pic.twitter.com/v0QlRuVGLH
— Ocala Police (@ocalapd) December 25, 2023
“This person tampered with crucial evidence by taking the shooter’s red hat from the crime scene at the Paddock Mall. That hat may contain valuable DNA evidence,” the post read.
Anyone with information on Shell or the person who took the hat is asked to call 352-656-6137.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: