New York

Suspected Gunman in Chaotic Hudson Valley Mall Evacuation Pleads Not Guilty

Two people were injured after a gun was discharged at Galleria at Crystal Run mall

What to Know

  • The man suspected of firing a gun in a New York mall crowded with holiday shoppers Sunday has pleaded not guilty
  • Michael Perez Rodriguez has been arraigned on reckless endangerment and assault charges
  • Two people were injured after police say Rodriguez's gun went off at the mall; the gunfire sparked panic and a massive evacuation

A 27-year-old Pennsylvania man suspected firing a gun in a Hudson Valley mall crowded with holiday shoppers has been arraigned on reckless endangerment and assault charges.

Michael Perez Rodriguez pleaded not guilty at his arraignment Wednesday.

Two people suffered minor injuries when the gun discharged at Galleria at Crystal Run in the Orange County town of Wallkill Sunday afternoon. The shooting sent shoppers scurrying for safety.

Assistant District Attorney Jason Rosenwasser told the Times Herald-Record in Middletown that Perez Rodriguez turned himself in Tuesday night after police released video showing the suspect entering the mall with a woman, a young child and an infant.

Rosenwasser says he's a lawful pistol permit holder in New York and Pennsylvania, and has a carry permit.

Perez Rodriguez returns to court on Monday.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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