Teen suspect in mall murder of 13-year-old Washington state girl released on $500,000 bail

A 16-year-boy accused of shooting and killing a 13-year-old girl inside a Washington state mall on Wednesday has been released from custody on bail. The teen suspect was bailed out on a $500,000 bond.

The 16-year-old lives in Edmonds, just 15 minutes north of Seattle. His mother turned him into authorities after the Lynnwood Police Department enacted a manhunt and released a photo of the suspect's face after he fled the scene, KOMO News reports. 

The boy is accused of discharging a firearm during an altercation with another group at the Alderwood Mall food court, located in Lynnwood, Washington. A bullet struck Jayda Woods-Johnson,13, who was not involved with either group. She was transported to the hospital and later died from her injuries. The suspect faced murder charges, according to KBTX3.
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Investigators obtained surveillance video footage, which captured the incident, and police were able to identify the 16-year-old boy as the alleged suspect. His name has not been publicly released since he's a minor. The Alderwood Mall was put on lockdown after the shooting. 

The Lynnwood Police Department wrote in a press release: "The Lynnwood Police Department expresses our deepest sympathy to Jayda’s family and friends for their unimaginable loss due to this senseless act of violence." The suspect was expected to appear in court on Friday, but will no longer appear. Police said officers have not yet recovered the weapon used during the shooting. 

The Edmonds School District released a statement and wrote: "Our Brier Terrace Middle School and Edmonds School District community experienced a heartbreaking loss on Wednesday evening when Jayda Woods-Johnson, a rising 8th grader, was tragically killed in a shooting at the Alderwood Mall."

"Our hearts go out to Jayda's family and friends during this incredibly difficult time," they continued. "Please know that we stand with you in grief and sorrow."