A 17‑year‑old boy remains in stable condition after being shot in the face Wednesday night inside the Ocean County Mall in Toms River. Police say the attack was targeted, and investigators are actively searching for the gunman, who fled in a gray sedan.

What Happened Inside the Mall

• Time: Approximately 8:10 p.m., Wednesday
• Location: Common area near the Applebee’s entrance inside Ocean County Mall on Hooper Avenue
• Victim: 17‑year‑old male, struck once in the face
• Condition: Stable at Jersey Shore University Medical Center
• Suspect: Male who attempted to start an argument, walked away, then turned back and fired multiple shots
• Vehicle: Fled in a gray or black sedan

Authorities emphasize that the shooting appears targeted, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Police Dispatch / 911 Radio Information

While the full 911 call audio has not been publicly released, police radio dispatch captured by News 12 and scanner pages provided early details:

• Officers were dispatched for “reports of gunfire inside the mall” shortly after 8 p.m.
• Initial suspect description: Black male wearing gray sweatpants and a gray sweatshirt, fleeing toward the parking lot.
• Responders quickly confirmed a gunshot wound to the face and requested medevac transport.

Investigation Status

The case is being handled by:

• Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit
• Toms River Township Police Department
• Ocean County Sheriff’s Office CSI Unit

Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact: Sgt. Denis Mitchell – 732‑929‑2027 ext. 2746

Community Impact

The shooting triggered a large emergency response and widespread concern among shoppers and employees. Despite the chaos, investigators stress that the attack was not random, and the mall remains open as the investigation continues.