The Last Outpost of Common Sense

Just in case you are wondering why malls are now installing metal detectors and folks cannot shop in peace.

Police have identified one of the individuals allegedly involved in the gunfire incident that caused panic at West County Center on June 13.

According to the Des Peres Department of Public Safety, the incident began when two groups who appeared to know each other got into a verbal dispute on the lower level of the mall.

Investigators say several people involved allegedly displayed firearms before running through the shopping center, sending customers scrambling for safety.

Authorities say one man fled into the Ballas parking garage, where he allegedly fired multiple shots that struck several vehicles and narrowly missed a person nearby. Detectives believe the suspect may have thought someone was pursuing him, but police say that was not the case.

Investigators later identified one of the individuals involved as 23-year-old Makil Key. Police spent hours tracking leads at several locations in St. Louis and Maryland Heights in an effort to locate him. Officials say two additional people connected to the altercation, who also allegedly displayed firearms, have been identified and remain wanted.

Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident, though multiple vehicles sustained damage as gunfire erupted in the parking garage.