HOUSTON — A suspected shoplifter was hospitalized Sunday after making a dangerous attempt to flee from police at Houston’s Galleria Mall, leaping from the second floor and landing on the ice skating rink below.
According to the Houston Police Department, officers were working an extra security detail at the mall around 2:20 p.m. when they were alerted to a shoplifting incident at one of the stores. Shortly after, they located the man suspected of stealing merchandise.
As officers approached, the suspect attempted to run. In a dramatic effort to evade capture, he jumped from the second floor of the popular shopping center, landing on the ice skating rink situated on the ground level.
Cellphone video recorded by bystander Ken Gilliard captured the aftermath of the fall, showing the man lying motionless on the ice.
“Oh my God,” Gilliard can be heard saying in the video. “Bro just fell from up there. He jumped from the top, landed straight on ice.”
Gilliard reported that the man appeared unable to move either of his legs. The video also shows Houston Police officers cautiously making their way onto the ice to assist the injured suspect.
Authorities confirmed that the man was transported to a nearby hospital with injuries. His condition has not been disclosed.
The suspect faces pending charges of theft and evading police. His identity has not been released, as formal charges are still being processed.
At this time, it remains unclear whether drugs or alcohol played a role in the incident.
The investigation is ongoing.
