Franklin Mills mall changed its name while Walmart moved, but violent crime still found the sprawling shopping destination on Jan. 9 as a shooting there left one man wounded and police searching for a gunman.
Authorities learned of the violence after the victim showed up at Holy Redeemer Hospital shortly before 1:30 a.m. with wounds of the hand, chest and leg. Another man had driven the victim to the emergency room.
The victim told detectives that he went to the Walmart to meet another man who owes him $50. The store is an anchor of the former Franklin Mills — which is now called Philadelphia Mills — at 4301 Byberry Road. While in the parking lot, the other man pulled a gun on the victim and demanded his valuables. The gunman then opened fire and fled.
After making it to Holy Redeemer, the victim was transferred to Temple University Hospital in stable condition. Police say that the victim identified the shooter, but his name has not been released. Police have made no arrests. ••
