Family of mall shooting victim ‘disappointed and disgusted’ suspect released from jail – KIRO 7 News Seattle

Family members describe Jayda as a girl with an infectious laugh who was eager to start eighth grade.

“She loved music. She loved movies. She wanted to be an actress,” Huffman says.

But those dreams were shattered when a fight broke out at Alderwood Mall. Police say a 16-year-old boy opened fire in the food court following an altercation. His actions killed Jayda, who was not involved in the fight. She was a bystander shopping at the mall with her best friend.

“He was the one who decided to get a gun. He was the one who decided to carry a gun. He was the one who decided to shoot her, to pull the trigger. He made a lot of decisions that ended up killing our little girl,” Huffman said.

The teenager’s mother reported him. He was arrested and paid $500,000 bail on Thursday.

Huffman said the family was caught off guard by the suspect’s release.

“He was released less than 24 hours after his wife was murdered. How is that possible?” Huffman asks.

In a message to KIRO 7 News, an employee with the Snohomish County District Attorney’s Office wrote: “The individual was released yesterday. No future hearings are scheduled at this time. The case is under review.”

Jayda’s parents released a statement to Lynnwood police on Friday. The statement reads in part:

“We are extremely disappointed and disgusted to learn that the mall shooter, the 16-year-old responsible for the murder of our daughter, is already out on bail and back in the comfort of his home.

However, we are disgusted and even more disturbed to learn yesterday that the court failed to protect our daughter and future victims.

“For her to be taken away in such a tragic way breaks all of our hearts. We are devastated to the core of our souls,” Huffman said.

A GoFundMe page for Jayda’s family has been set up for those wishing to donate.

A spokesperson for Alderwood Mall told KIRO 7 they are increasing security for the safety of customers.

The mall will add three additional security officers, as well as a K-9 unit.