ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) - Police in northern Virginia have concluded that the evacuation of a shopping mall last month happened because a child shouted a misinterpreted video game reference inside a movie theater.
The Washington Post reported Wednesday that authorities found that no crime was committed. They also said no charges will be filed regarding the incident in mid-September in Arlington.
Police interviewed witnesses and reviewed surveillance footage that showed a juvenile shouting, “Pennywise has sharpshooter activated!” during the movie “IT: Chapter Two.” The juvenile was referencing the clown antagonist of the “IT” franchise. It’s based on a 1986 novel by Stephen King. “Sharpshooter mode,” is a feature in some video games.
Some interpreted that to mean there was an active shooter. Authorities say one person suffered a minor injury during the ensuing evacuation.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.