An 18-year-old man was arrested and charged after firing a gun on West Franklin Street in Chapel Hill Friday evening, according to the Town of Chapel Hill. Officers responded to the 100 block of West Franklin Street around 7 p.m. following reports of gunfire near local student-frequented establishments, though police confirmed there were no reports of injuries.
Suspect Arrested and Facing Multiple Charges After Friday Evening Gunfire
The Chapel Hill Police Department identified the suspect as 18-year-old Axel Zizumbo. Police records show Zizumbo is facing charges of a concealed carry of a weapon violation, discharging a firearm in town limits, and being armed to the terror of the public.
The incident occurred in a busy commercial block that includes businesses such as the Yogurt Pump, White Sauce Bar & Grill, and the Pulp Juice and Smoothie Bar. Witnesses on the scene reported that numerous students were present on the street when the shots were fired.
Did You Know? The 100 block of West Franklin Street in downtown Chapel Hill houses several popular student spots, including the Yogurt Pump, White Sauce Bar & Grill, and the Pulp Juice and Smoothie Bar, placing the Friday evening gunfire directly in a high-traffic pedestrian area.
Eyewitness Accounts and Emergency Response on Franklin Street
Hannah Mackin, a senior at the University of North Carolina, was outside a nearby restaurant when the gunshots rang out. “Everyone started screaming,” Mackin said, describing how patrons scrambled for safety. “We run into [the restaurant] … the entire place is just people screaming and hiding out. Eventually we go out and it’s flooded with cops.”
Mackin reported receiving a notification from Alert Carolina, the university’s emergency alert system, at approximately 9 p.m. Law enforcement officials stated that there is no ongoing threat to the community as the investigation continues.
Axel Zizumbo Arrested After West Franklin Street Shooting
Who was arrested in connection with the Chapel Hill shooting?
The Chapel Hill Police Department arrested 18-year-old Axel Zizumbo following the gunfire on West Franklin Street.
Were there any injuries reported during the incident?
Police stated that there were no reports of injuries resulting from the shooting.
When did the incident occur and how did the university respond?
Officers responded to the scene around 7 p.m. on Friday evening, and the University of North Carolina issued an Alert Carolina notification to campus around 9 p.m.
What specific charges does the suspect face?
Zizumbo is facing charges of a concealed carry of a weapon violation, discharging a firearm in town limits, and being armed to the terror of the public.
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