A second teen has died following a double shooting outside The Mall in Columbia, Maryland. The Howard County Police Department confirmed that 15-year-old Blake McCray succumbed to his injuries on March 1. This incident occurred on February 22, when police responded to reports of gunfire at approximately 5:52 p.m.
- Second teen dies from Columbia shooting
- 15-year-old Blake McCray succumbs to injuries
- 16-year-old Michael Robertson pronounced dead
- 18-year-old Emmetson Zeah charged with murder
- Zeah violated home detention prior to shooting
- Enhanced police presence at Columbia Mall
The tragic incident unfolded in the parking lot and bus loop adjacent to Lidl, located in the 10300 block of Little Patuxent Parkway. Upon arrival, officers discovered two victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Sixteen-year-old Michael Robertson was pronounced dead at the scene while Blake McCray was transported to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center but later passed away from his injuries.
Police investigation revealed that both teens were shot near the stairs leading from the bus stop next to Barnes & Noble and Lidl’s parking area. Officers found two spent 9mm cartridge cases at the scene. In connection with this double shooting, police arrested Emmetson Zeah, an 18-year-old who had previously violated home detention conditions just one day before the incident.
- Victims: Blake McCray (15), Michael Robertson (16)
- Date of Shooting: February 22
- Location: Outside Lidl near The Mall in Columbia
- Arrested Suspect: Emmetson Zeah (18)
Zeah is facing murder charges related to this case as well as attempted murder for a separate incident that occurred earlier this month. He has a court hearing scheduled for later this month as authorities continue their investigation into these violent events.
This recent tragedy highlights ongoing concerns regarding youth violence in public spaces and raises questions about community safety measures aimed at preventing such occurrences in the future.