Police: Shooting of teenager near Clark County Juvenile Detention Center not random

The shooting of a 15-year-old boy in Springfield on Wednesday night was not a random attack, police said Thursday, emphasizing there is no public safety threat as a result of the incident.

The shooting occurred about 10 p.m. outside the Clark County Juvenile Detention Center and Courthouse, 101 E. Columbia St.

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The teenager was with a group of juveniles when he heard gunshots and ran, Springfield Police Sgt. James Byron said. It wasn’t until he stopped moments later that he realized he had been shot in both legs.

He didn’t call for help, the sergeant said. Police learned of the shooting when someone dropped the boy off at Springfield Regional Medical Center. Police said he suffered serious injuries and was transferred to Dayton Children’s Hospital.

“My understanding is his condition’s improved,” Byron said. “And we’re expecting him to hopefully be released soon.”

As reported on News Center 7 at 5:30 , police told News Center 7′s John Bedell police have no suspects.

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“We’re obviously very concerned that we have gun violence anywhere in the city, but it’s particularly concerning when you’re talking about in front of a public building – a court no less, right downtown,” Byron said. “That’s pretty brash.”

Investigators are still looking into what led up to this shooting and the shooter.

If you have any information about what happened, the Springfield Police Division is asking you to contact them at (937) 324-7685. You do have the option to remain anonymous.