A 16-year-old has been charged after shots were fired in broad daylight in the parking lot of an Alabama Walmart.

The gunfire erupted at 12:30 p.m. Saturday at Walmart in east Gadsden.

No one was injured, but several vehicles sustained damage.

Police said a dispute between two people began inside the store and then continued outside.

During the altercation, the 16-year-old pulled a gun, ran and attempted to shoot the other person. In the process, two vehicles were struck.

“That outcome is not something we take lightly,” police said in a Saturday night press release. “In a crowded parking lot, in the middle of the day, this could have easily ended in a horrible tragedy.”

“What we saw today was a choice,” police said. “One individual chose to escalate, chose to introduce a firearm into a situation that never should have gone beyond words. They chose to put innocent people at risk.”

Authorities said officers moved efficiently and deliberately. Witnesses stayed on the scene and willingly cooperated with investigators.

The teen - whose name has not been released - is being charged with two counts of shooting into an occupied vehicle. He is being charged as an adult, and more charges are expected.

“We are fortunate no one was hurt. Situations like this remind us how fast things can happen,” said Gadsden police Chief Lamar Jaggears. “Our officers and this community responded exactly how they should, and we will continue to hold people accountable when they choose to endanger others.”

“I’m so glad this didn’t end in tragedy,” said Mayor Craig Ford. “I appreciate the quick response from our officers and the cooperation from those on scene. That’s what keeps our community strong.”

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