Two cops shot and suspect dead after gunfire erupted in busy shopping center the day after Christmas...
TWO cops are fighting for their lives after a shooter whipped out a gun in the middle of a bustling shopping center and started opening fire.
The suspect was quickly brought down after bringing post-Christmas chaos to the small North Carolina town.
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The violence unfolded during a child custody exchange at the Mint Hill Commons on Friday morning in Mint Hill, outside Charlotte.
At around 10:47 am, cops raced to an Edible Arrangements in the mall after the suspect pulled a gun during the handoff.
The man exchanged gunfire with cops and hurt two officers before he was shot and killed, the Mint Hill Police Department said in a statement.
Horrified witnesses say they watched police run into the store, and come out bloody, NBC affiliate WCNC reported.
Kevin Phayme, who manages a pizza restaurant across the street, said his employees watched the violence unfold during a smoke break.
“They didn’t hear gunshots but they did see two officers enter in the Edibles establishment,” he told the local outlet.
“They saw one of the officers come out, have blood on his face and he was being brought out by his partner.”
Lawmakers have sent their prayers and voiced their concern about the harrowing situation.
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In a statement, North Carolina Senator Woodson Bradley said, “This is awful. My heart goes out to the officers and their families.
“Custodial exchanges are THE MOST DANGEROUS SITUATIONS for a separated/divorced spouse with an abusive ex.
“Prayerful for recoveries for these officers.”
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