A Sunday afternoon meet-up for an online sale at Laurel Towne Centre turned violent when gunfire left two people wounded near the Harris Teeter on the 14700 block of Baltimore Avenue, police said. Both victims were taken to trauma centers with injuries described as not life-threatening, and detectives remained on scene collecting evidence as the investigation stayed active.
Police: Marketplace Meet-Up Turns Into Shooting
Officers arrived around 12:35 p.m. to find two people suffering from gunshot wounds, according to WJLA. Preliminary findings indicate the shooting happened during a planned exchange tied to an online marketplace transaction, the outlet reports. Laurel police have not released any suspect description and say the investigation is ongoing.
Earlier Shooting Outside Nearby Restaurant
The incident comes on the heels of another recent burst of violence along Baltimore Avenue. Earlier this month, three people were shot outside the LongHorn Steakhouse in the 13600 block during large Cinco de Mayo crowds, according to WBAL. After reviewing the May 5 gatherings, the City of Laurel later suspended the Use and Occupancy permit for Amigos Mexican Grill, per the city’s online press release.
Police Push Safe Spots For Online Deals
In the wake of Sunday’s shooting, a police spokesperson urged residents to stick to designated safe-exchange locations when meeting strangers for online marketplace transactions, WJLA reports. Officers recommend choosing busy, well-lit public places and bringing a friend along when possible.
Anyone with information about Sunday’s shooting is asked to contact the Laurel Police Department. The city website lists the non-emergency line and an email for tips as 301-498-0092 and [email protected], according to the City of Laurel.
